Forgiveness starts with self-forgiveness.
Over the years I have forgiven many people but forgiving myself is always at the top of my list. It sounds kind of funny to forgive yourself, but it is definitely one of the things that has helped me the most in my life.
Yes, people hurt us, they disappoint us, they betray us, they lie to us – but we do the same to ourselves. Every time we commit to something and don’t do it. Every time we talk bad about ourselves. Every time we let other people take advantage of us. Every time we choose someone else’s happiness over ours. Every time we hurt someone else, we also hurt ourselves.
“To forgive is the highest, most beautiful form of love. In return, you will receive untold peace and happiness.” —Robert Muller
So, learning to forgive ourselves for all these times is the first step in forgiving others.
Forgiveness does not always lead to reconciliation. Sometimes the people we are forgiving are not in our life anymore. Making peace with that is part of the forgiveness process.
Forgiveness is about setting ourselves free. It is NOT saying someone is right, it is not condoning their behavior. Forgiveness is about self-love. Loving yourself enough to live with an open heart brings you peace and happiness.
So, choose to forgive yourself today. Say it out loud; write it down. “I forgive myself.” Choose to have a forgiving mindset; the freedom you feel will be extraordinary.