The Space Between Peace and Power

Sometimes, I laugh at myself. Not for a silly thing, actually, but for the fact that I am so proud of myself, proud of the person I have chosen to become. I have said it in this community before how I learned to forgive easily and let go completely, which in turn has brought this deep peace inside of me.

So, whenever someone does something bad, either intentionally or unintentionally, I quickly smile it away and even if they apologize, I just wave it off, signaling that it's alright.

Many issues that others would assume should make me flare up and hold grudges, I let go of effortlessly. People often wonder what kind of human being I am because, to them, it is easier to fight back and make enemies than to just walk away or choose to let it slide.

But something I learned quickly in life is that enemies are always lurking around, and holding onto grudges only makes their presence more obvious, giving them an excuse to justify their actions. I don't like the idea of enemies lingering around me, so whenever the opportunity arises, I smile at people even those who frown at me. Once I smile, I move on with my life without looking back to see what they are planning next.

This approach has earned me respect everywhere I go because I have learned to understand people's perspectives, even when they try to provoke me. Instead of reacting, I pretend I am not hurt and keep my peace.

Something happened recently. I had informed a friend who stays in the city I would be moving to about my plan to get new things for my apartment and how I would need her help, which she promised to provide. But on the D-day, she disappointed me. I had to go through a lot of things I never expected, navigating places I do not know on my own, all because she failed to keep her promise, giving only excuses.

This could have made another person resentful, refusing to forgive, but I quickly dismissed such thoughts. I understood her immediately because one thing I’ve realized is that, in the end, I am the one who owns my problem, so I must face it.

A lot of small issues have led to misunderstandings, where one party refuses to forgive the other. But for me, I hold onto the words of the Holy Bible: "Love your neighbor," which goes even further to say, "Love your enemies." This has made life more beautiful and fulfilling, allowing me to embrace relationships and learn from them. I freely open my heart to people, not for them to take advantage of me, but because forgiveness and letting go have gifted me inner peace and an unwavering joy.

Another way is how it has allowed my mind to stay in one direction and not divided into two. When you hold onto grudges, one part of your mind struggles to find happiness, while the other part is consumed with bitterness and thoughts of hurting the one you refuse to forgive. But in my case, I am free like a bird. My mind wanders toward beautiful things, welcoming a smooth, refreshing flow of happiness and grace.

I hope you understand my point here. I am always a happy person because I chose to let go instead of holding onto resentment. This freedom has not only allowed me to enjoy meaningful relationships but has also helped me grow, learning invaluable lessons from different people along the way. With this simple mindset, I am never limited in the kind of people I choose to associate with, and that is how life has led me to something truly amazing.

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