Forgiveness

Through the fulfillment of a singular, selfless act, unconcerned with the fruits of the act, passions and desires are no more – nothing holds one to the act except for the act itself – it is only then that one achieves serenity. Serenity is a state of no suffering; it is a non-charged experience of the world, rooted in letting go. He who is serene is powerful in his mind and insight, and the acts that he engages in demonstrate wisdom and uphold higher knowledge…

– Read the Bhagavad Gita –

Part of embracing my own humanity is recognizing that same humanity in others.

I ask myself to be internally honest and I don't scold myself for feeling any certain way, so why should it be any different for the people around me? I grant forgiveness to myself, recognizing the incongruences between my values and an action, and I understand that no one mistake defines me, so why keep my mind and my heart closed when other people stray?

It's easy to grant myself a "free pass" because the source of action is known, I don't have to put my trust in an external source whose reliability is all or none.

That vulnerability though associated with trusting another human through an appreciation of honesty, forgiveness for mistakes, and an understanding of values as they mold his or her sense of self, fosters some of the most meaningful, enriching, and intricate relationships in life.

I am not weak and I am not vulnerable.

I am not a pushover and I am not easily manipulated.

I am not a fool and I am not blind.

I am a human and I choose to see the humanity in every person I encounter.

I choose to focus on the present.

The past will inform me, it will impact me, but it will not direct me. The thought of the future will scare me, it will challenge me, but it will not halt me. Five years ago I would have never imagined I would be sitting here today without my mom at my side. The fact is that time is precious and each day is an opportunity for turbulence and change, as well as appreciation.

I can choose to ruminate on the past and waste energy and emotions on negativity.

I can choose to worry about the future and continuously question my heart.

Or I can live for the present.

I can look at you through new eyes, understand you as an imperfect human, and appreciate your love as it is right now.

So no, I'm not weak or vulnerable or a fool, I'm empowered.

Hate and revenge are easy.

Acceptance, forgiveness, and love, in any and all regard, they are hard, and I have the courage to embrace them.