1. Select a bitter
sorrow, a serious grievance against someone, or a punishing charge against
yourself, and review it in complete detail.
2. Hold in your mind
the image of whatever is to be forgiven - yourself, another person, a past
event - and say, “I release you from the grip of my sadness, disapproval, or
condemnation.” Concentrate quietly on this intention.
3. Imagine for a
while what your life will be like without the sorrow or grievance that has been
haunting you.
4. Make amends with
someone you’ve hurt or someone who has hurt you; tell a friend about your
self-forgiveness; or otherwise bring your inner work to your relationships.
5. Ask for God’s
help to overcome fear or resistance at any step. If you do not believe in God,
ask for help from nature, humanity, and the mysteries of your own mind. These
are the channels through which aid is sent - and aid is always sent.
6. Have patience.
Forgiveness induces healing which follows its own order and timing. Whether you
think you have accomplished anything thus far is less important than the fact
that you have attempted a radical act that will call forth change likely to exceed
your expectations. Go about your daily business, but stay alert to unexpected
shifts in your thinking, feeling, and relationships.
7. Repeat steps 1
through 6 as often as necessary, for life.
That’s it! You can
fight terror today by forgiving the next little thing that bugs you - and then
forgive whatever comes next. Rest assured that on your way to greater peace,
sharper intelligence, and a true fearlessness, you’ll always find plenty of opportunities
to forgive.
