Are You Drinking Poison?

“Holding a grudge is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die”

When someone you care about hurts you, you can hold
on the to anger, resentment and thoughts of revenge
— or embrace forgiveness and move forward.

We've all been hurt by the words or acions of another fellow human being! We have little control over that happening. But - what comes next is totally within your control! Yes, you can certainly justify your angrer, perhaps even seeking revenge.But if you don't practice forgiveness, you might be the one who pays most dearly. By embracing forgiveness, you can also embrace peace, hope, gratitude and joy. Consider how forgiveness can lead you down the path of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.
Although "forgiveness" will mean different things to different people. it generally, involves a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. The act that hurt or offended you might always be with you, but forgiveness can lessen its grip on you and help free you from the control of the person who harmed you. Forgiveness can even lead to feelings of understanding, empathy and compassion for the one who hurt you. Forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting or excusing the harm done to you or making up with the person who caused the harm. Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps you go on with life. I've hear it put in another way..."Holding a grudge is like allowing the other person t oliver rent free inside your brain." Forgiveness sets YOU free! There are many benefits to practicing forgiveness. I will list a few below Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for improved health and peace of mind.
Forgiveness can lead to:
*Healthier relationships
*Improved mental health
*Less anxiety, stress and hostility
*Lower blood pressure
*Fewer symptoms of depression
*A stronger immune system
*Improved heart health
*Improved self-esteem

We could certainly find a long list of damaging aspects to holding onto the anger!
But, we need to focus on the beneficial aspects of forgiving others! Forgiveness is a choice and a commitment to a personalized process of change. To move from suffering to forgiveness, you might:
*Recognize the value of forgiveness and how it can improve your life
*Identify what needs healing and who needs to be forgiven and for what
*Consider joining a support group or seeing a counselor
*Acknowledge your emotions about the harm done to you and how they affect your behavior, and work to release them
*Choose to forgive the person who's offended you
*Move away from your role as victim and release the control and power the offending person and situation have had in your life
As you let go of grudges, you'll no longer define your life by how you've been hurt. You might even find compassion and understanding.

LET IT GO! LET GOD PREVAIL!