Hey girl,

I would like you to do something for me. I would like you to think of someone that you are holding a grudge against.

Please know that holding grudges is NOT healthy. I understand that you're hurting and that you're bitter. I understand that person's actions and words have nailed a hole into your soul. That person whom you thought was a friend, but she betrayed you. That family member that abused or neglected you when you were a child or a teenager. That ex-boyfriend that made you feel bad about yourself or cheated behind your back. I understand how difficult it is to love others unconditionally especially if it is from a distance.

But let me tell you something. Jesus died on the cross for you. He went through all that pain, suffering, and rejection. He was innocent, but he still had to pay the ultimate sacrifice. He had people spitting at him, jeering at him, and whipping him. He was hurting so much: not just physically, but mentally. Yet, he still had the dignity to love those people even though they had betrayed him. He died on the cross so that YOUR sins could be forgiven.

Remember that God loves you so much. More than you can imagine. You have probably made some wrong decisions at least once or twice in your life and God has given you grace. You most likely did not get away with the consequences, but you were most likely given a second chance to make things right again.

So I dare you: let go of that grudge. Yes, it will not be easy but it will be worth it. Your life is too short to dislike anyone. See the good in others. Know that person who hurt you is probably hurting as well. He or she probably is insecure about themselves or don't respect themselves enough to respect you as a person. Remember that you are NOT perfect and neither is that other person. Do not become a victim of your circumstances. Be better than that person. Forgive them like God forgives you on a daily basis. You will feel a weight lifting off your shoulders once you release those negative viewpoints you have been holding for so long. You will be able to breathe easier as well.

Obviously, do not forget what happened. Let that experience teach you to be the better person. Use that history so that the negative events in your past do not repeat themselves ever again.