Wiping the Slate Clean

Happy New Year!

2009 is upon us! Each new year brings about thought of "Starting over". Whether it was with a resolution or some other way, a new year is always a good reminder to start over with something. Fresh starts generally make us feel better. Lugging the weight creates mental and physical fatigue, and starting over allows us to get rid of that weight.

I received an e-mail this week, through one of my subscribed e-mails (AllProDad.com) and it addressed four things it means to forgive. Forgiveness goes along the lines of starting over. Lugging around that chip on your shoulder can get tiring, so why not forgive that person? Use this year to wipe the slate clean! That brings us to this week's segment...

Author Ken Sande says that when you really forgive someone - your parent, your spouse, your child, your friend - you are making four specific promises to yourself and to them. You are saying:

Number 1: "I will not dwell on this incident."

Number 2: "I will not bring this incident up and use it against you."

Number 3: "I will not talk to others about it."

Number 4: "I will not allow this matter to stand between us or hinder our personal relationship."

You may or may not have to tell a person that you have forgiven them, depending on the specific instance. However, if approaching someone is needed, inform them that you want to be at peace with things and have forgiven them for what they did.

If you are a part of the church, we are not really given the choice whether or not to live at peace with each other. We are called to forgive. Don't make it more difficult on your day-to-day life...forgive! Lose the "grudge" weight!

May God bless you as you start your new year!