GET OUT OF JAIL FREE
Unforgiveness is the number one way to be imprisoned in the Emotional Intelligence Jail. It is holding a grudge against someone who has offended us, leading to unkind and merciless thoughts. It has an underlying poisonous cycle: Unresolved hurt (recognized or unrecognized), resentment, bitterness, vengeance, evil speaking.
When in this cycle, emotional prisoners either punish themselves or others, depending on their type of personality. Blamers of self-hurt themselves; blamers of others hurt others. The answer to the needed emotional healing is forgiveness. Unfortunately, it is not often taught.
Forgiveness is not:
- Forgetting the offense.
- Reconciling.
- Acting as if nothing happened.
- Avoiding confrontation.
- Weakness.
In contrast, forgiveness is:
- Saying, “I forgive you.”
- Releasing emotionally…
- Letting go of anger, resentment, bitterness, getting even, vengeance, hatred.
- Choosing to see the good in the other.
- Strength.
The ones you live with will be spared of an unforgiving-spirit atmosphere. What you choose to forgive may become your destiny.
If you want to be free, forgive. Using God’s compassion and forgiveness to deal with offensive people will strengthen you. It is your get-out-of-jail card. God our Father taught us to pray: “…and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us…”
