By clinging to past hurts and refusing to forgive, we end up harming only ourselves. In most cases, people are unaware of the pain their words or actions inflict on others. And what of the people we have hurt who have moved out of our orbit. Do they hold pain within in them from our actions or words?

These individuals who upset us may have only been in our lives for a short while. The shop assistant who gave us the wrong change, the driver who cut us up, the person who allowed the door to slam in our face. Tax increases or pension cuts from the government. Our flight has been cancelled by the airline. The train running late. These petty injustices can poison our view of life and breed bitterness within us. However, some people's actions are more obvious and leave scars. The parent who did not love you. The teacher who picked on us. The bullies at school. The partner who betrayed us. Our lives are littered with the thoughtlessness and unkindness of others. Step away from the people, companies and organisations as they may not even be aware of the anger or bitterness we may feel.

This suffering we have created stems from within, not from external sources; we must liberate ourselves from this self-inflicted pain, injustice, and grievance. We're the only ones suffering because of this. We need to release ourselves from the control of others' words, deeds, and actions. Failure to do so could prevent us from achieving our full potential. 

To free ourselves from the ties that bind us, we must let go. Let go of those who hurt us and seek forgiveness from those we have hurt to move forward. Let it go, let it go and give thanks for all we have. The love of our children, the kindness and companionship of genuine friends, the small acts of kindness from a stranger. Cast off and heal old wounds and move forward with a light with a grateful heart. Breath fresh air, smell a fragrant flower, laugh at children playing in the sunshine, stroke the fur of our faithful companion and smile at a stranger. Moments of joy that open doors to new opportunities and our best life. Release yourself and follow your dreams.