THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF FORGIVENESS

Forgiveness is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and self-compassion. It is not something that can be resolved just by the words 'I forgive you' unless a deep process has taken place inside first. There has to be an acknowledgement of all the emotions involved, an understanding of all the causes before the decision to forgive can move us towards working through the pain, and letting go of resentment.

- SARAH EAGGER

'To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you' - Lewis B. Smedes

Forgiveness is a powerful spiritual attribute. It is the intentional decision to let go of anger and resentment or desire for revenge. Those who have this beautiful virtue understand the value of freedom, and recognize that the real impact extends far beyond just two individuals.

The Hawaiian people have the understanding that the world we experience is a mirror of what is going on inside us. They have the awareness that we all contribute to whatever is happening to the world and to the self. They have a practice of reconciliation and forgiveness, which means to 'make right' or 'to correct'. It is a prayer of forgiveness and acceptance and of cleansing the energies.

The name of their prayer is 'Ho'oponopono'. This is the prayer:

I'm sorry - recognize and accept responsibility for what caused the situation, to the one wronged and to the universe.

Please forgive me - a request to make amends, to the higher self and the universe

Thank you - an opportunity to show gratitude to the higher self and the universe.