FORGIVENESS

Domestication is a two-way street. Although another person may have used his or her words and actions to attempt to domesticate you, or even to cause you harm or pain, ultimately you said yes to the belief and allowed it to blossom in your mind.

Becoming aware of your responsibility for your half of a relationship is crucial - it’s not just the other person’s fault. Recognize that you have been using someone else’s words or past actions to potentially cause both of you harm simply by saying yes. Others’ words and actions have power to hurt you only with your permission, which you give when you choose to agree with them.

Practice

Forgiveness happens the moment you say no to carrying the pain of an agreement that isn’t good for you. Say aloud or to yourself, “I forgive myself and all others for using their words and actions against me, and I vow not to hurt myself again.”

The act of forgiveness, for yourself and for others, allows you to move forward in life.

Living a Life of Awareness

~ Don Miguel Ruiz Jr.