Learn How to Forgive from Marianne Williamson

For Spirit

Oct 6

Holy Hannah, not only did I have front row seats to listen to world-renowned spiritual teacher, Marianne Williamson put on a lecture at the Winspear, but I got to meet her and ask her a question! Ahhh! A big thank you to the Bloom Festival for bringing her into our beautiful city.

First things first, I have to say that as I was sitting there watching her speak 5 feet away from me, I couldn’t help but thank God for the experience. I was blown away to feel what it’s like to manifest something so incredible. Sure, I could have gone to see her at one of her lectures in LA, but no…she came to Edmonton? The frequent friend and guest of Oprah came to Edmonton? For me, it was a message from the Universe showing our city and I, just what is possible.

For those of you who do not know Marianne Williamson, she is the author of New York Times Best Selling Book, A Return to Love. Williamson bases her teachings on A Course in Miracles which is a self-study program of spiritual psychotherapy based on universal spiritual themes.

The one question I asked her? “What message do you have for twentysomethings?”

Her answer? “The spirit has no edge. It doesn’t matter if you are 20 or 60 years old. We are all on a path of awakening. But if I did have advice for you, it would be to enjoy your 20’s. Enjoy this time of your life and forgive.”

Forgive?!...I thought to myself. It wasn’t at all what I expected to hear. Who do I forgive? Am I holding a grudge? Does she know something I don’t know? It really struck a cord for me.

Thank goodness she spoke more of forgiveness at her lecture.

What is Forgiveness?

Forgiveness is the ability to love, even when someone (including yourself) has in your mind, done you wrong.

Therefore, forgiveness is NOT accepting an apology. In fact, there does not even have to be an apology for you to forgive.

Marianne believes that the only way to spread love throughout the world is through forgiveness.

The Path of Forgiveness

Choosing to not forgive is electing to hold a grudge, having a closed heart and worst of all, carrying around resentment.

Have you ever heard the quote; Resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die?

As much as you would like to believe that your state of unforgiveness is a punishment onto another or protection upon yourself…think again.

Choosing not to forgive keeps you forever in the past, when in fact, happiness exists only in the present moment.

Don't forgive in favor of the other person. Do it for yourself.

How to Forgive

Die to the past at every moment. What would your life look like without the pain of resentment you hold for that one person? How would you behave without the heaviness of your so-called “protection”? Be okay with feeling vulnerable and exposed. You know why? Because it's human and it's normal. Have trust that the new found love in your heart will guide your way.

To tap into the deeper aspects of forgiveness. Watch Marianne on Oprah's Super Soul Sunday below.