Imagine how perfect our world would be if we could live by three simple life affirming principles: "Do not hurt yourself," "Do not hurt others," and "Do not destroy property." During the course of our lives we make lots of mistakes. In fact, it seems that we never learn from those who came before us. We have this trait that, if we were any smart, we would let it go immediately. Instead, we are adamant about making our mistakes and learning from them, silly us! In any case, every time we disobey the rules, we either need to apologize or, if others disregard these principles, we need to forgive. In my article: "Who Wants To Apologize? How Simple Words Can Heal Your Life," I talk about the act of asking for forgiveness. Now, let me focus on the art of forgiving. Based on the three life affirming principles, the very first person you need to forgive is yourself for hurting the most important person in your life: You. That's right. I know most people consider their children, spouse, and parents the most important people in their life. This is very generous of them, but it does them no good. The most important person in your life is you. Period. You must embrace this concept once and for all. Then, you need to forgive others, either for hurting you or for destroying your property. Comprised in this group are the general criminals, authorities, people in general, acquaintances, co-workers, and those you love; in sum: everybody but you and your pet. Now, which ones are the most difficult to forgive, yourself or others? This a tough question, but one can argue that forgiving oneself is a most arduous task. We are our most sever critics and have a tendency to knock our heads on the wall time and time again because of simple little petty mistakes. No matter whom you need to forgive, one of the best ways to go about it is to visualize yourself or the person being enfolded by a light, be it golden, purple, or just plain white. Then, take a deep breath and repeat it aloud: "I am now blessing you and sending you to this light. You and I are free. I wish you well." Then, see the light dissipating, like smoke in the air. Take another deep breath and affirm: "It is done." Go about your day and repeat this process as often as necessary. |
