Hey out there world! I've taken a leave of absence while my man in uniform was back in town for a brief period- but I'm back! I hope you are all getting ready to have a fun, fattening, and cheer filled holiday season. :) I've been thinking a lot about forgiveness these days and of course had to share my thoughts. As we come into the holidays we are sure to encounter reunions with family and friends. Of course we all want the holidays to be smooth sailing events, but how can we ensure that this is the case? There are no guarantees in life of course, but what can we all do each day in our daily lives to contribute to this "smooth sailing," especially during the holiday season? When it comes to forgiveness- I am the first to raise my hand in saying that it is no easy task. When you really think about the root of forgiveness- why it is so hard to give and receive it- I think it all a comes down to control. When we have such strong opinions about a situation- we hold them tight, sometimes too tight- like Elmira holds her pets in the Looney Toons- and don't want to give up that control. Sometimes because we've been holding on so tight for so long, we can suffocate the situation or feeling. Releasing the iron grip and finally letting go can lead to all things relieving and great. And releasing the grip allows us to forgive others and ourselves. When we are held up with resentment, anger, and begrudged inside, it certainly doesn't make for a pleasant holiday season, or help with those wrinkle lines coming in around the eyes. :) Releasing someone from your clutches after a disagreement or a hurt feeling will not only make them feel better- but you too! Forgiveness all around for everyone this year- that's what Santa's putting under your tree!! But seriously people- when we let go of the bad feelings- we allow all of the good feelings back in. The key here too is not only to forgive others- but also yourself. Don't get hung up on the grudge you've held or how you "could have handled the situation better." Instead, take a deep breath, move on, be real and just spread the love. I am sure that your grandmother will be overjoyed to see that shiny smile on your face from across the dinner table- and what better way to begin the new year with a fresh start. :) So my message in all of this to you today? Let go- forgive- and love. Sometimes we get so hung up on the details we forget how good it feels to just love- especially this season. :)
xoxo AA
