Forgiveness: a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge – which can make way for happiness, health and peace.

When someone you care about hurts you, you can either hold on to anger or embrace forgiveness. Forgiveness allows us move forward because forgiveness leads you down the path of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Forgiveness doesn’t minimize or justify the wrong. You can forgive the person without excusing the act.

How can we reach a state of forgiveness? Forgiveness is a commitment to a process of change. You might actively choose to forgive the person who’s offended you, when you’re ready. Move away from your role as victim and release the control and power the offending person and situation have had over your life. You might even find compassion and understanding.

A Tibetan monk who escaped to India after suffering years of torture in prison under the Chinese rule, was asked if he was ever afraid. He answered “Yes there was one thing I was afraid of. I was afraid I will lose compassion for the Chinese.”

humor: when asked what gift he wanted for his birthday, the yogi replied “I wish no gifts, only presence”