It is often times in our lives that those closest to us are the ones that can hurt us the most. Friends are important and I have to remind myself that they don't want to hurt me. Sometimes they make choices that are truly to benefit their lives and I want nothing more than for them to be happy. Sometimes it just hurts. Our choices have a lasting effect on those around us. We must be aware of that. More importantly we must be aware of our choices and how they effect others. When our friends are making the right choice in their life we can't stand there and be offended. We must support them even when it hurts. Even if we are feeling betrayed, jealous, left behind, or whatever else we may be feeling. We must show love and when we do we will be strengthened.
Sometimes it is these moments that I struggle to be a Christlike person. I am stubborn and hardheaded. Through my life I have seen how important it is to have a cheerleading team. We all need to be reminded that we are loved and who am I to hold back the true love of Christ on account of my own shortcomings? Sometimes we don't want to be cheerleaders. That's okay to feel. But then we must get over it.
Service is a key example of Jesus Christ. He showed us how to live and love. It doesn't make it easy but it does make it easier. I am trying to embrace this in my life right now.
I have made a personal pact to be aware of when I am too focused on me and when I am harboring unnecessary offense. When a total stranger has every intention of hurting me, I can forgive them. Why is it that when someone I love/a close friend that has no desire to hurt me but unintentionally does so, that I cannot forgive them?
This is my PSA for letting go before you let yourself get dragged down. Look at the bright side of life and forget whatever someone has done to you. Move on.
I have not perfected this notion but I am sure trying.
