There can sometimes be no one harder on you than yourself. Mistakes have been made. The memories of our foibles and faux pas can flash through our minds creating moments of epic cringe. It’s time to let those go. I’m not suggesting you simply stop having the memories; when they resurface is often outside of our control. We can, however, control how we respond when it happens.
If you reflect on a mistake you made, a misunderstanding, or even some offense committed against you – what emotions are associated with that memory?
SHAME? ANGER? REGRET? DISAPPOINTMENT? ALL OF THE ABOVE?
After noticing the emotions that arise when you reflect on those situations, you can try to reduce their impact by focusing less on them and shifting your attention onto forgiveness.
You can forgive yourself. You can forgive someone else. You can forgive the situation as a whole.
It is not saying that you agree, condone, or like the situation. It is acknowledging what occurred in the past and making the conscious decision to release its hold on your mind and spirit. In time, distressing thoughts and feelings decrease with the practice of forgiveness. It could be instant; it could be slowly and surely. What is most important is that the load be lighter in your heart and mind so that you experience love and life the way God intended. That is why you are already forgiven.
AFFIRM. RINSE. REPEAT:
I AM FORGIVEN. I FORGIVE YOU. I FORGIVE ME.
Inner Renovations Toolbox 