Forgiveness is a way to care for ourselves.
Dr. Chris Germer leads us through a 5 step Forgiveness Practice.
1. Start by opening to the pain of the hurt, touching it so it is real and we can feel it in our body. “This really hurts”
2. Validate the pain compassionately with kind words, supportive touch, loving tone. “This hurts. Anyone would feel this way. May I be safe, strong, kind to myself”
3. Cultivating wisdom – understanding all the forces that made this person act badly. What are the causes and conditions that led to it? Get curious while being sympathetic with yourself for the pain you endured.
4. Form an intention to forgive the other – only if it truly feels right. “May I begin to forgive you for what you did consciously or unconsciously that caused me pain”
5. Make a contract with yourself deciding not to be hurt like this again, at least the best of your ability.
