Forgiving Myself In A Brand New Way

By Sasha Lahrs

I learned from my teacher that “forgiveness is the key to happiness”. I see where this is so true. Any time we’re holding onto something negative (anger, regret, a grudge, or resentment), it ties up our energy that could be used for more positive things. This could be an unwillingness to forgive another person, or it could be where you aren’t forgiving yourself.
We usually have a reason to justify why we should hold on to it. We need to start being more responsible for the mental atmosphere we create. Because holding onto it, or not wanting to forgive does more harm to you (first and foremost) than to any person, place or condition that you felt has done you wrong.
I’ve also come to learn that there are no people, places or conditions “outside” of ourselves that aren’t a reflection of our own inner world. In the big picture of the universe, since we were all created by the same energy, we are each other at core reality. So forgiving another is truly forgiving yourself, as another expression of you.
On a physical level, science has also proven that chemicals are released from the brain, that correspond to our emotional state. Negative emotions can cause pain, discomfort and even disease. On the other hand, positive thoughts and emotions release endorphins and have a positive effect on your total well being.
A positive and negative attitude can’t both exist at the same time. So why not be good to yourself by choosing to experience more of the positive? Begin with forgiving yourself. Then, make a decision to forgive every person, place or condition that may have done you wrong. You’ll amaze yourself.
I’ve seen problems in my relationships with other people transform, when I’ve allowed forgiveness to flow. I’ve experienced a new sense of self esteem and acceptance when I’ve forgiven myself for places where I felt I “did wrong”. I’ve truly been able to experience forgiveness as the key to happiness.