On January 1, 2015 I shared that my word of the year is release. In that post I mentioned wanting to release a specific anger I have toward a person and institution. I’ve been holding on to it for a couple of years. Yes, a couple of years. It’s been said that holding on to a resentment is like drinking poison in hopes of killing the other person or institution. I’ve finally become tired of drinking the poison.
A few weeks ago I discovered that over time I have indeed released the anger. I can’t tell you how freeing it feels. How did I do it? I wasn’t able to will myself to let it go. Rather, I spent a lot of time processing the many ways I am a better, stronger person for having gone through a very painful and troubling situation.
- I became closer to God because I sought prayer and meditation to get me through it.
- I discovered who my friends are.
- I am a better coach. I have empathy for my clients who are going through similar situations. I am living proof that “this too shall pass.”
- I feel better able to handle current rough patches because I survived such a big one. I have thicker skin.
- I am grateful for my present circumstances.
How do I know I’ve released the anger? There was a time when the mention of the person and institution stirred up white-hot emotion. Recently I heard a story about them and I felt nothing. I’m free.
Are you holding on to a specific anger or hurt? I sincerely hope you find a way to release.
482gr8 
Great post. Congrats on freedom. 😊
Thank you! It feels wonderful!