“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.” ~ Lewis B. Smedes

Is there someone in your life that you need to forgive?

The recent passing of my Dad has me reflecting with gratitude that we healed our relationship. We had a 9-year period of time that we didn’t communicate.

I had wounds from my childhood that I blamed him for. Fortunately, I sought counseling to support me in healing my pain. Counseling helped me move from victim to love and forgiveness.

Being a victim kept me shackled to the past and left me powerless to create the joyful life I longed for. Holding onto anger and resentment blocked my ability to completely give and receive love to myself and others.

I am grateful that I claimed my power to heal and to forgive. If I would have stayed stuck in victim and blame, I would have missed out on so much love and laughter with my Dad.

While cleaning out his home after he passed, I discovered some letters that gave me insight into his wounds from his childhood. Reading about the pain that he endured as a young boy gave me even more compassion for him. He rose above some terrible events from his childhood. I now see that he always loved me and many of his actions stemmed from his desire for me to achieve more than he did.

Isn’t that what we all desire for our children?

If there is someone that you need to forgive, I encourage you to do so.

Oftentimes the person we most need to forgive is ourselves. I had to do a lot of self forgiveness.

Forgiveness is the ultimate act of self love and compassion.

It’s a precious gift that you will give to yourself. Life goes quickly and we are only assured this moment.

Love has the ability to heal all wounds.

May you allow Love to win.