We all experience situations and people that cause us pain and resentment. But hanging on to negative feelings can increase anxiety and even cause premature aging. Every day, I remind myself to let go of resentments — for my health, if for no other reason!
Despite all the things and gadgets we all own, many of us resent how our lives are moving forward, or things we have done that we cannot change. Life is meant to be enjoyed! Not shackled by resentment. Yet, here we are … again. Of course, prayer helps, but there are other practices we can engage in that will move the process along.
I want to share an article I read in the March/April issue of Spirituality & Health, a Unity publication.
Louisa Rogers, in her article, ‘Why I’m Letting Go of My Resentments”, offers the following tips:
- Aim to be contented. Engage in activities that bring deep pleasure. Of course, your list of deep pleasures would be different from mine. The goal is to take time out of our busy lives for things we love. “A quote from the Talmud speaks to this: ‘We shall be called to account for all the permitted pleasure we failed to enjoy.'” A bit humorous, but true!
- Be willing to have the resentment removed. Not always easy! Telling yourself to give up is not always effective. Try praying for increased willingness. “To nudge myself in the direction of willingness, I use writing, art, ritual, prayer, and meditation.” The more you engage in being willing, the easier it will be.
- Once willing, I ask Spirit to remove my resentments, and repeat as needed. Patience is needed in this step. “Still, the phase does require time and patience, because Spirit doesn’t believe in rushing.” Be gentle with yourself.
- Express gratitude and generosity for the peace of mind that a life free of resentment brings. Appreciation is an important part of the process. “What is important to me now is that unshakled by the resentments I once had, I feel a freshness and renewed joy in my life.” When I repeatedly remind myself of what I am grateful for, joy increases!
NOTE: Italicized copy are direct quotes from Louisa’s article!
We are living in a challenging world. I personally feel overwhelmed and even assaulted by the chaos going on around me. But I can choose to hang on to the negativity and be miserable, or I can let it go. If I let go of resentments, I feel lighter, happier, and more content with life on a day-to-day basis.