Forgiveness: The path to freedom

Forgiveness is widely misunderstood. It is seen as something to be done for the other after the wrong has been done. The basic understanding of forgiveness is rooted in “the other is wrong”.

WHO NEEDS FORGIVENESS?

When we feel wronged, we create hurt and hold on to that pain, believing we can’t forgive them for their mistake. However, if the person does not consider that to be their mistake or feel guilty, then, what are you forgiving them for? It is a mistake in your eyes but not to the other. Who do you actually need to forgive?

Forgiveness isn’t about others; it’s about freeing ourselves from the habit of dwelling on the mistakes, whether done by self or others. If we cannot forgive ourselves for our own mistakes, it will be very difficult to forgive others. This lack of compassion leads to unhappiness and a sense of being trapped in our own thoughts.

When the other has wronged, you can avoid or stay away from the person, but, when it is the self who has done wrong, you don’t have any choice to escape from yourself. How will you avoid yourself! Life becomes hell when you have to live 24/7 with the person you dislike. This mindset creates a cycle of pain that can last a lifetime. Living in constant regret prevents us from having peace.

RELEASE THE RELIVING

Release the need to replay a negative situation over and over in your mind. We have become a hostage to our past by reviewing and reliving wrongdoings. Stop reminding yourself of what should have, could have, or would have been. Each time we relive a painful experience, we deplete our energy and damage our own mental health. It’s essential to recognise that these repetitive thoughts drain us and are like a prison.

Forgiveness is an attitude that needs to be adopted every moment, for it helps us free our minds from the burdens of anger, resentment, pain, etc. When someone causes us pain, it’s essential to understand that we must first unburden ourselves from our created pain. The focus should shift to one’s own self.

YOU dESERVE PEACE

By forgiving, you free yourself from the heaviness of hurt and other emotions. You choose not to hold on to negativity, allowing yourself to heal and move forward. It is a gift we give to ourselves, enabling us to live a happier and peaceful life.

The journey of forgiveness begins with ‘understanding’. By letting go of past mistakes and their pains and focusing on the present, taking charge of this moment, we can find true freedom. Forgive, because you deserve everlasting peace!

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Centre, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Get in touch via email: bkmeditation.jam@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 876-853-7848. Follow them on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica.