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Why is it Hard to Forgive when you Would Benefit?
We hold on to negative feelings even though they hold us down and keep us captive
Sometimes I know the truth but still have trouble putting it in practice.
I know this — if you are angry with someone you are giving them control, and more power than they should have. If you keep thinking about your anger, and how wrong that person was, you don’t get much else done. It can sap your energy and your creativity.
I know forgiving is better. Yet I’m holding on to the anger. Even when we know the best course of action, why is it hard to do? Is it my own pride? Is it a desire for revenge? Maybe it is a desire for justice and fairness?
These thoughts and feelings are counter-productive. Why do we waste time and energy holding on to anger? It won’t change the situation.
As it is written, “the truth will set you free.” Yes, it will, but you have to be willing to walk out of the jail cell to be really free. It is easier to hold on to the negative feelings than it is to do what will make you feel better.
The answer is to rise above whatever it is and to forgive the person that wronged me. Then I will be free again.
