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A few shows ago, we talked about what to do when something goes wrong.
Regina shared how she handles righting a wrong. She said, “I get silent and listen. I take in as much data as I can. I consider all the consequences of my actions and those of others. I consider all the different ways I can react to it.”
“I try each reaction on like a coat. Does it feel right in my gut? If not, I try another coat and another.”
“I don’t rush it. It may take days. I may ask for advice. I may journal. I may sleep on it or dwell on it for days. I consider whether I can go on without resentment over what was done wrong. I come to the best conclusion and I act.”
“But I have trouble swallowing the resentment. That takes much longer. It does ease, with time. I mature . . . I grow and eventually, I let it go and forgive.”
She points out that – “Forgiveness is like ocean waves. At first you try to forgive and move on, but the waves are so big they take you down with them. You struggle to stand up and forgive again, again you fall.”
“Over the years, the waves get smaller and you learn to step over them. In time they are but a ripple tickling your toes and you enjoy the peace of the ocean once again and you forgive and are at peace.”
[Show #432]
There are some slights that are soooo hard to forgive. I realize if I hold the resentment, it’s only hurting me, but, sometimes, tough!
You are so right, Karen. Sometimes letting go is hard. I think Regina captured it well – first big waves that prevent forgiveness that ultimately reduce to a trickle and then, forgiveness is possible. Thanks for your thoughts, Karen.