Today's Quote: “Sincere forgiveness isn't colored with expectations that the other person apologize or change. Don't worry whether or not they finally understand you. Love them and release them. Life feeds back truth to people in its own way and time.” -Sara Paddison
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful concepts you can ever practice. If you have ever forgiven someone who wronged you, you know what I mean. With that said, I encourage you to lower your standards for other people. YES, you read that right. Those standards you have? Lower them. Accept people for who they are and stick to the basics of human nature. When you have high standards for other people they will often disappoint you. The higher the standards you set for others, the more likely they are to fall short of those standards. The disappointment may fester or lead to negative feelings towards that person. No bueno. Don't get me wrong, I am not saying you should cease to expect excellence from those around you. What I am advocating is for you to look at the actions of others from a more objective standpoint. When was the last time someone offended you? Have you truly forgiven them? If you haven't forgiven them, why are you still holding on? Let go! Aside from extreme crimes involving family massacres, I believe everything is forgivable. If you reach down deep enough into your spirit, you can find it in your heart to forgive their actions.
The only person you can set standards for is yourself. YOUR behaviors is the only thing you have control over. Forgive others for their shortcomings and re-evaluate your expectations. Don't hold a grudge when people fall short because that burden will be yours to bear. Forgive them. Just as you are who you are, they are who they are. You cannot force people to care about your feelings. You can teach people how to treat you but they do not OWE it to you to treat you that way. Nobody owes you anything. You can expect the people at a restaurant to get your order right. You can expect the bellman to take your bags. If you expect for people to be nice to you, don't be upset when they get upset and hurt your feelings. You can demand that they respect you but you can't allow yourself to be upset when they slip up. Forgive them for falling short. Forgive them for not knowing any better. Forgive yourself for expecting what turned out to be too much. Forgive. Don't forget.
Today's Song Choice: Dru Hill-These are the Times
Have a happy 4th of July folks!
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