Forgiveness is often a difficult action to achieve. However, it is one of the most powerful sources of freedom. The choice to not forgive holds you in a self contained prison. This workbook does not suggest that you approach the person you need to forgive. Forgiveness is not for the source of anger or sadness; forgiveness is for the one who suffers from the action...YOU.
Forgiveness
is a journey. Once you truly forgive a source of
pain, you have freed yourself from the pain. Forgiveness does not mean
you need to re-connect with this person. It is simply a way to release a source that is holding you back in many facets. Dwelling on the
reason not to forgive will simply strengthen the binds that are in your
mind and heart.
Once
you forgive, you may actually feel gratitude for the opportunity to
grow stronger spiritually within. It might even ignite you to pursue a goal to help
others with a similar issue.
1.To start this journey, write down who or what you need to forgive. Remember, forgiveness is for your release. Then, take a moment to press your hands together with your thumbs pressed against your heart (called Anjali mudra in yoga) and close your eyes. Focus on inhaling and exhaling slowly. As you focus on the calmness your slow breathing brings and the sensation of your heartbeat, quietly say to yourself: "I choose to forgive__________"
Repeat this for several minutes and do not repress emotions that may emerge.
Emotions are not permanent and are meant to be released. Take a moment to imagine this person before they even became a part of your life. What made them become who they are? We're not looking to justify what they did; however, understand what made them do what they did.
2. Write down in your book who you need to forgive. You may not WANT to forgive, but you need to forgive to set yourself free.
3. Depending on your circumstances, consider speaking to a spiritual leader, a therapist, or an impartial friend who can help. Just do not let yourself reinforce your justification in your mind why NOT to forgive. To be free, you must learn to forgive.
4. Once you have truly forgiven someone, you will feel weight literally lifted off your heart. Write down how this experience has made you a better or stronger person. You just might feel gratitude for being given the opportunity to grow if you perceive it from a spiritual perspective.
