Let the past make you better, not bitter

Life often tests us with challenges, and many of us allow the pain of the past to turn us bitter, overshadowing the present. Instead of embracing growth, we cling to resentment, blaming others, circumstances, or destiny. Rarely do we pause to introspect and realise that our way of processing our experiences may need to change.

PAST EXISTS ONLY IN MEMORY

Our past resides in our memories, whether sweet or sour. Some train their minds to focus on the good while others remain trapped in painful recollections. Holding on to negative memories is like carrying unnecessary baggage. When we declare, “I can never forget this,” we unknowingly choose to imprison ourselves in pain. The lack of power to release what doesn’t serve you is the biggest poverty. The more pain we hold on to, the more bitter we become. The ability to love gets blocked.

The anger and hurt we carry from past events hinder our ability to love fully in the present. Whether the past is from years ago or just moments back, clinging to it changes us. We shift from being kind and loving to bitter and defensive without realising it.

TAKE THE RIGHT LESSONS

Often, we misunderstand the lessons that life offers through hardships. For example, if someone deceives us in business or relationships, we may conclude, “Never trust anyone again.” But is that truly the right takeaway? When lessons are filtered through pain, they often become distorted, leading to emotional wounds rather than growth.

True lessons never compromise your core values. Losing your values makes you bitter. Consider how we teach a child: if they repeatedly want to play with something harmful, we don’t give up on them, or avoid the issue, or give away the child. Instead, we patiently teach them right from wrong even if it takes countless reminders. Similarly, we must train our minds with repeated affirmations to stay aligned with our better selves, choosing growth over bitterness.

CHOOSE BETTER OVER BITTER

Choosing bitterness may seem easy, but true growth lies in remaining true to your values despite adversity. This doesn’t mean allowing others to take advantage of you. Instead, it means setting boundaries without letting negativity taint your heart.

Our present thoughts shape our future. If we allow negativity to dominate our minds now, it perpetuates a cycle of bitterness. Breaking this cycle begins with consciously releasing pain and empowering the mind with positivity.

Visualise letting go of old pain and affirm: “I am a loving, peaceful being. I am released from bitterness and feeling free.” Cleanse your energy every day. Remember, unresolved pain manifests as physical illnesses.

Embrace life, learn lessons, and let those lessons make you better.

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.