Friday, November 22, 2013

Stuff to Forgive: How a Daily Forgiveness List Can Transform Your Life

Santa’s Coming Soon—Time to Make a List!

The holidays are almost here. Most of us think about what we want, gifts we hope for, and lists of things to buy. But if you want a truly joyful holiday season, why not focus on forgiveness instead? Rather than creating a list of things you want, create a list that will bring real happiness and peace to your life.

Start Your Forgiveness List

We all have things that weigh on our hearts:

Barking dogs in the neighborhood

  • Your spouse for not appreciating you enough
  • Your kids for making a mess all over the house
  • The girl who made fun of your skirt in fifth grade
  • The first guy who broke up with you
  • Your former "best friend" for dating your ex-boyfriend
  • Your aging parent for getting older
  • Yourself for creating clutter
  • Your friend or neighbor who died unexpectedly
  • The deep hurt you feel when you are ignored

Go ahead… make a list. Take ten or twenty minutes and jot down everything you can think of. Nothing is too big or too small. Don’t worry about forgiving anything just yet—just do a brain dump and get it down on paper.




Work Slowly and Gently

Once your list is ready, start forgiving one thing each morning during your daily meditation or prayer. Take it slow. You don’t need to tackle something new every day. Sometimes you may work on the same item for several days. Sometimes you may just stew on it. That’s okay.

Remember: forgiveness is a process. Don’t rush it. Be gentle with yourself, and don't be surprised if the universe gives you a little shove.  It might gift you with a little more information or insight about what you're forgiving.  Or sometimes we get another forgiveness "lesson" that is similar to the issue we're working on.  It's nothing to be upset about.  It's there for your good and overall growth, adding greater understanding to the lesson.  Chances are you'll be gently nudged in ways that will help you tackle each item on your list.  Let it unfold and do the forgiveness work you can as you are ready. 

You’re Doing This for You

Above all, remember that this practice is for you. YOU want peace. YOU want happiness. Every step you take toward forgiveness is a step toward your own freedom and well-being


Want to go deeper into forgiveness?

Let these tools light your path — because forgiveness sets you free.
— Sue Pipal


http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/forgiveness-is-the-key-to-happiness-sue-pipal/1117267787?ean=9781452583372

 
"Forgiveness is the Key to Happiness" is available at: 
 
amazon.com
barnesandnoble.com
balboapress.com 

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