When we hold back forgiveness, it’s kind of like taking poison and thinking the other person will suffer. This process can be done alone and you need not be in front of the person you are forgiving. The most important person to forgive is yourself.
Step 1: I’M SORRY
Apologizing for anything you may have done or said, consciously or unconsciously, to contribute to another’s suffering is one part of this step. Another, more advanced part is this…You are responsible for everything in your thoughts and your reality, even if it seems to be “out there.” This realization can be tough to accept, and you will likely resist it. But, it may help to know that just because you have accepted responsibility for it, doesn’t mean there is anything for you to do beyond this process of Ho’oponopono. When you say “I’m sorry”, be creative and authentic with your words…”I’m sorry that my consciousness somehow created this in my life. My heart aches with this realization”.
Step 2: PLEASE FORGIVE ME
Again, be creative and thorough. “Please forgive me for…” and say this as many as necessary to allow it to sink in activate emotions within you.
Step 3: THANK YOU
Be creative and thorough again. “Thank you for this opportunity for forgiveness”. “Thank you for loving me anyway”. Just keep saying THANK YOU.
Step 4: I LOVE YOU
Say I LOVE YOU to the easiest thing to say I LOVE YOU to…your pet, your partner. Then, change to the more difficult…your hurts and challenges in life. Really get into this and say it with feeling and authenticity. There is nothing as powerful as Love.
