Forgiveness. Doesn't come easy, doesn't come quick, but it heals.
In past experiences, holding a grudge always seemed like the best option when someone or something crossed me wrong. I would hold onto the anger in hopes the other person would eventually feel the way that I did. It was almost satisfying in a way to speak ill of the situation, fantasizing about things playing out differently, and the rush of playing victim. But why was I not 100% fulfilled? Why didn't I feel better? Well, a grudge could never heal me the way forgiveness can. I didn't need anger to feel happier, I needed mercy.
Hating is easy. It's natural to us. But, using anger only digs at the wound we got from being hurt. We all want to move on from pain, but it's impossible when we refuse to help ourselves. Sometimes, we forget how small we really are. We forget how fragile life is. We forget that acceptance can do good. I promise, a grudge can't outweigh the power of healing. Forgiveness does NOT leave you with the hurt you felt before, it leaves you with peace. Just because it isn't simple, does not mean it isn't worth it.
We're humans. We get wronged, and we get angry. There are times we despise someone, or something, or the worst, ourselves. We need to remember that better tomorrows are composed of some bad yesterdays. Only we can choose what we want our futures to look like. Only we can choose the path of healing. Forgive, not because you have to or because you are weak. Forgive so you can have peace. Forgive so you can be strong. Forgive so you can look in the mirror and be proud of yourself. There is nothing more spectacular than a person who can swallow their pride and realize being bitter is not getting them anywhere.
Forgiveness taught me acceptance. I have learned to accept that life is not perfect and mistakes will be made. I have learned to accept that the universe will not always be in my favor or on my side. I have learned to merciful to my own demons and those around me. Life can be so much more pleasant if we all took the crucial time to let the healing process happen. Next time anger and bitterness fills your body and soul... take a breath. Breathe, and come to the realization that the past can't be undone. Take the first step that might even feel like a giant leap, and just forgive. Forgive to heal.
Forgiveness can seem hard and unpleasant most of the time, but not nearly as painful as holding on to a grudge that only scars you.
