“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.”
Lewis B. Smede
This is the season of peace and joy, and I’m certainly on board with that. But it’s also the season of forgiveness. And who hasn’t become angry, felt wronged or held a grudge? After all, we are only human!
I think I’ve held a serious grudge in my life only a couple of times. It did not last long, because for me, holding a grudge takes a soul-crushing amount of energy. What I did not realize until recently is that being a forgiving person is actually part of living a healthy lifestyle. So it’s a win-win situation!
What Happens When You Forgive Someone?
Here are the benefits of practicing forgiveness, as published by the Mayo Clinic:
- 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
The Time is Now
You are the only one who controls when you will forgive someone. But what better time is there to forgive others than during the holy season of peace and light that is celebrated across the planet?
Sometimes you need time to work through your anger and hurt, especially if the wound is deep. As time goes on, maybe the pain will fade and and will resolve on its own.
But sometimes a grudge or anger can take out a long-term lease in your mind. Over time, it can cause you a lot of unnecessary anguish.
I’ve watched elder family members take their grudges and arguments to the grave. It was heart-breaking and tragic. So if you are carrying a grudge or holding in anger, now is a great time to let it go. I think we can all benefit by a little soul-searching, especially during this holiday season.
Merry Christmas, and thank you for reading! – Barb, the River Blogger (Btrb)
Feel free to reblog anything I post. I welcome all comments and discussion.
The River Blogger 
You said it!
“The best revenge for violence is peace.”
Barb – what a beautiful Christmas message. Thank you.
Thank you, Liz! Merry Christmas!
Well said. Thanks for the reminder.
Thank you!
Wisdom is power and thank you for your words