Reconciliation - part III

Reconciliation - part III

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/forgiveness/art-20047692

Grudges and being angry at others play an interesting role in our psyches. Sometimes we can’t let go of our hurt feelings even though we want to, and other times we’re just not ready to let go. Either way, holding onto a grudge feels like a mental consolation prize – you were wronged so now you get a grudge.  I WAS WRONGED!!  HOW DARE THEY TO DO THAT TO ME!!

 

But ultimately you need to get over it!!! “A study from Emory University found that bitter people had higher blood pressure and were more likely to die from heart disease than more forgiving people.”

 

“On top of that, prolonged feelings of resentment can also negatively impact metabolism, immune response, and organ function. Those feelings also put you at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety.”

 

We all have been hurt.  It is part of life.  Maybe it was a parent who criticized you, or a teacher, or somebody else.  I have found I have a little resentment with my dental hygienist!!  (HUH?)  Every time I see her (four times a year), she harasses me about not flossing enough.  The last time I was in, I was close to a model patient.  I had flossed almost every day.  I had avoided sugars.  I brushed whole-heartedly every morning and evening - and most of that with a good automatic brush (that is supposed to get into all the cracks).  I was looking for a compliment like “My, your teeth were much better this time.”  But she goes back to the same litany about brushing and flossing.  As I have reflected on this (and, by-the-way, if this is as bad as it gets, then I have a very pleasant life!!!).  She is a dental hygienist - and this is her profession, and this is her life.  

Can you imagine her life?

She gets up in the morning, drives to work and gets her first patient, and cleans that person’s teeth, then another, then another, then another. Her hands have been in drooling, salivating mouths all day.  Then she gets to me.  I’m not quite a number to her - but I’m not on her radar.  I’m just one of the hundreds she sees in a month - and probably very few have perfect teeth.  She remembers a little of me - plus she has my chart on her computer.  Yes, I always need cleaning, yes, I always need to floss more.  So, without much of a reflection, I get the same lecture (which is almost like nagging).  

[Aside - these last few months since my last appointment, I have rarely flossed.  I’m going to show her!!  {sounds like a rotten brat doesn’t it!!]

*****
These wounds can leave you with lasting feelings of anger and bitterness — even vengeance.

But if you don't practice forgiveness, you might be the one who pays most dearly. By embracing forgiveness, you can also embrace peace, hope, gratitude, and joy. Consider how forgiveness can lead you down the path of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Forgiveness means different things to different people. Generally, however, it involves a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge.

 

Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make a way for improved health and peace of mind. Forgiveness can lead to:

·         Healthier relationships

·         Improved mental health

·         Less anxiety, stress, and hostility

·         Lower blood pressure

·         Fewer symptoms of depression

·         A stronger immune system

·         Improved heart health

·         Improved self-esteem

If you're unforgiving, you might:

·         Bring anger and bitterness into every relationship and new experience

·         Become so wrapped up in the wrong that you can't enjoy the present

·         Become depressed or anxious

·         Feel that your life lacks meaning or purpose, or that you're at odds with your spiritual beliefs

·         Lose valuable and enriching connectedness with others

Think of forgiveness more about how it can change your life — by bringing you peace, happiness, and emotional and spiritual healing. Forgiveness can take away the power the other person continues to wield in your life.

 

*****

So, here we are - another day, another blog on reconciliation, forgiving, cleansing your soul (and your teeth).

 

I’m thinking I might print this out for my hygienist.  But I’m realizing that I need to forgive and love her.  (And walk in her shoes - I need some volunteers to let me put my fingers into your mouths and let me touch your drool and saliva!!!)

 

Oh, back to the drawing board (and the forgiveness path).  I remember a statement - “Please be patient with me, God is not finished with me yet!!”

 

Hugs!!!

 

Karen