You may have heard the saying that harboring unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. It is so true, unforgiveness is toxic and has been associated with a number of different health problems as well as contributing to the deterioration of a relationship overtime.
Here are 3 reasons why forgiveness is so important in relationships.
Forgiveness Gives Your Relationships the Opportunity to Grow
If love is the sunshine in a relationship then forgiveness is the water. When you give forgiveness it’s like pruning a tree. When you cut off the bramble (unforgiveness) it gives your relationships the opportunity to grow something new and more vibrant. One of the easiest ways to create a culture of forgiveness in your relationships is by consistently making deposits into the emotional bank. Essentially, when you positively engage with a person whose seeking to connect with you it’s a deposit into the emotional bank. And when you turn away, it’s a withdrawal.
Forgiveness is the Launching Point for Personal Healing
An article in Psychology Today shared how forgiveness can bring about lower stress hormones, strengthen the immune system, lower blood pressure, and reduce gastrointestinal and other body pains. The good news is forgiveness is within your control. It means you’re choosing to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. However, I know it’s not easy as it sounds so I recommend checking out the 9 Steps to Forgiveness as forgiveness is more of a journey than a destination.
Forgiveness Restores Your Power to Choose
One of the challenges we have with forgiveness is the feeling we’re letting someone off scott-free while we’re left to deal with the emotional trauma. But that’s far from the truth, in fact recognizing you have a choice in this matter can give you a sense of freedom and balance of perspective. It also gives you the power to forge ahead and create a brighter future because you’re choosing to let go of the past.
Remember choosing to forgive does not mean that you forget or that you have to be okay with how someone has treated you. It’s a process that brings restoration, balance, and healing back into your life. So if you’re wondering what gift to give this holiday season, give the gift of forgiveness, it has long term benefits for both the giver and receiver.