In a few weeks, we’re going to celebrate easter. Easter is identified as a time for renewal, a new spirit, and a new hope given by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. But as we go through our daily lives, the burdens of the past often weigh us down, preventing us from truly embracing this amazing gift of hope. This year, let the spirit of Easter inspire you to unlock a key to better mental well-being: acceptance and forgiveness.
Acceptance: The Foundation for Healing
Acceptance doesn't mean ignoring a situation or excusing bad behavior. It's about acknowledging reality without judgment. It's recognizing that things are the way they are, even if we don't like it. It’s also about acknowledging that there are things outside our control.
Imagine carrying a heavy backpack filled with rocks - past hurts, regrets, and anxieties. Acceptance is like setting that backpack down. Why? Because holding onto negative emotions is like carrying a burden that weighs us down and hinders our ability to move forward. When we accept a situation, we release that burden and create space for positive emotions and growth. Acceptance lays the groundwork for forgiveness.
Forgiveness: The Path to Freedom
Forgiveness is often misunderstood. It's not about saying what happened was okay, nor is it about reconciliation with someone who hurt you. Forgiveness is about letting go of resentment and anger. It's a personal choice we make for our own well-being.
Forgiveness doesn't erase the hurt, but it allows us to move on without being chained to the past. It frees us from negative emotions and allows us to invest our energy in positive experiences. Just as Jesus offered forgiveness on the cross, we too can choose to forgive.
Putting Acceptance and Forgiveness into Practice
Acceptance and forgiveness are journeys, not destinations. We should celebrate every small step and give ourselves time to practice it. Like any other thing in the world, without practice, it may seem impossible to achieve. Here are some practical tips to get started:
Acknowledge Your Emotions:Â Identify and understand how you're feeling, embrace, and allow yourself to feel that way.
Practice Self-Compassion:Â Be kind to yourself. Everyone makes mistakes and that's okay.
Focus on What You Can Control:Â There are always things that we can't control, but we can focus on what we can.
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This Easter, allow yourself the gift of acceptance and forgiveness. By letting go of the burdens of the past, you pave the way for a renewed sense of mental well-being and eventually foster healthier relationships with others. As the Easter message reminds us, a new life is always possible, and it can begin within yourself.
Written by: Grace Kwee (Counselor) grace.kwee@sph.ac.id