Learning to forgive is an issue everyone has had to encounter. Whether it be with an individual person or a situation involving many, we’ve all been there. Hurt feelings, disappointment, anger and frustration are all emotions we deal with when it comes to forgiveness.

But what keeps us from forgiving another? Is it our ego? Our pride? What if the other person is not willing to forgive and move forward? Should we continue to hold resentment simply because the other person isn’t willing to let it go? Unfortunately, this is usually what happens.

Our first response is, “Fine! I won’t forgive you either,” and the battle is on. What both parties don’t realize is this resentment will effect their health in the long run, not to mention feed an overactive ego. The ego needs to be right and no matter what, it will always find a way to justify itself.

So how do we overcome the ego and learn to forgive? Simply saying the words, “I forgive you” may not be enough. True forgiveness comes from the heart. Otherwise, they are empty words and words spoke from an empty heart will not heal a situation.

We have to fully open our hearts to be able to forgive. When you find yourself in a situation that requires forgiveness, the first thing to do is put your ego in the back seat. Hog tie it and duct tape its mouth. Turn your back on it, close your eyes and feel your heart expand and open.

Fill it with healing light. When the ego begins to mumble and thrash about, acknowledge it, but continue to expand your heart. Ask yourself why this situation is so upsetting to you. It most likely has to do with you not getting something you wanted. Keep in mind, the other individual feels the same way.