Letting Go of the Past

“Make peace with your past or it will mess up all of your todays.” Anonymous

The past can be hard to deal with sometimes. We often feel deep regret for things we said or did, or maybe we aren’t exactly proud of the kind of person we were. Or, maybe there is pain or anger for something that was done to us, something that we didn’t cause, but we are weighed down by it nonetheless.

Whatever there is in our past that is hindering our happiness today must be dealt with, and there is really only one way to accomplish that. We have to do just that, deal with it and put it behind us. We may choose to use prayer, meditation, spiritual principles, positive self-talk, confrontation, therapy, or a combination of any or all of these. Prayer, spiritual principles, and meditation can help us learn how to forgive ourselves and others. Confronting someone that caused us pain can provide closure and strength. Therapy can help us identify and guide us through all of the emotions that are uncovered.

No matter how we choose to do it, we must be willing to give it all of the time and energy that is required. If we do not confront these issues openly and completely, they will continue to grow, and then we run the risk of holding on to a painful past so long that it makes our lives miserable forever.

Sadly, we have all met people that hold on to all their past mistakes and hurts. They have become hard-hearted and hateful. The pain actually shows in their eyes, and it can be heard in their harsh words. No one has to become this kind of sad, miserable person when all it takes is some hard work and willingness to prevent it from happening. It can be painful to be sure, but it is definitely worth it to make peace with the past so that we can live and enjoy the rest of our todays. After all, no one knows how many more todays there will be, so let’s do our best not waste any more!