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Why Should I Forgive?

“I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.” MLK

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we thought we’d share one of our favorite quotes. It got us to thinking, did anyone know how scientifically accurate this statement was at the time?

Recently scientists have begun to dive into the research of forgiveness and the overall effect it has on both our mental and physical health.

Turns out, there’s more in common than we might’ve thought.

Did you know that when you choose to forgive it allows you to release toxic thoughts like bitterness, anger, resentment, shame, guilt, and even hate? Releasing those thoughts free up your mind to focus on more positive things- directly affecting your emotional and physical well-being.

Studies show that those who are choosing to remain resentful toward a person or thing that wronged them (this could include themselves) have higher blood pressure, higher rates of heart disease- and feelings of lack of control.

However, those that have developed the ability to forgive are not only significantly happier and healthier but find it easier to keep on forgiving.

Just because you choose to forgive someone does not mean that the situation did not hurt, or what they did was okay.

Forgiveness is acknowledging that we are all human, and making a conscious decision to act in compassion instead of hate.

It’s a decision to believe the best in that situation, and realize that maybe there were things that caused them to act out that you could not see.

Forgiveness is a choice to let go of the heavyweight, and it’s more to your benefit than the other persons. Oftentimes, we as people think that by holding unforgiveness that we are punishing the other person. But the truth is, you’re the one who has to live with the negative emotions and the effect they have on your physical body.

We know that forgiveness is often easier said than done, so check out our next blog for some helpful tips!

We understand that in some situations it doesn’t seem like the other person deserves it, or it’s harder to let go than you thought. If this is the case, ask for help! We’re just a phone call away.

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