January 2, 2026. Forgiveness

 I received a post from a dear and close friend this morning, spurring the inspiration for the blog I've been struggling to find.

It was about forgiveness and the four times it's necessary for inner peace. We all need that. Now, not all of these will apply to everyone, but it may help anyway. Please know, this is a very simplified version.

First of all, forgive your parents for whatever shortcomings affected you, whether they are alive or gone. They were human and did the best they could. 

Secondly, forgive a divorced partner or failed personal relationship. I've only had one other significant person with whom I separated from, amicably, and have remained friends to this day. I know I was one of the lucky ones.

Forgive anyone who has treated you badly, or with whom you have a strained relationship. The past is the past; let go of what was. This does not mean you must allow them back into your life; let the hurt or betrayal go, along with them.

Finally, and this is particularly hard, forgive yourself. I fully acknowledge I'm a flawed human being: too sensitive, too perfectionistic, ah, the list goes on. I'm a work in progress and my own worst critic. While some of this may never change, I will admit to it all being just what I am.

None of this is a judgment. It's a gentle suggestion of what can help ease a tortured soul, or bring some closure.


This past year has made it necessary to forgive, mainly within my family circle. It's also made it possible to let those no longer be a part of my life, with no guilt, as it was their choice. I will respect that without reservation. Honestly, it's been freeing, not feeling that pressure of trying to maintain a relationship that has already been long gone.

*cue the music* let it go, let it go...☘

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