What if the most important thing holding you back in life is not what others have done to you, but the mental and emotional burden you are carrying around? In today's episode, we'll look at the profound practice of forgiveness, both for others and ourselves.

We all carry emotional baggage from our prior experiences, whether it's a bad relationship, a moment of betrayal, or even guilt we impose on ourselves.

I recently watched a very cool video on Instagram that used gym weights to represent the emotional baggage we carry when we lack forgiveness. And let me tell you, it made me think. How much lighter would we feel if we just let everything go?

Today, we'll discuss how to let go of those weights, reclaim our vitality, and go on with an open heart. So, lace up your shoes, because we're about to go for a Wise Walk and think on what's holding us back—and how we might let go of those burdens forever.

• What emotional weights are you carrying around, and where do you feel them in your heart or body?

• Who or what comes to mind when you think of sadness, anger, or disappointment?

• When was the last time you forgave yourself or someone else to lighten your emotional load?

• What steps can you take today to release a weight you no longer need to carry?

• Is there a story from your past that you’ve held onto, and is it time to let it go?

• How can you choose to drop that story and be more present in your life?

• Have you ever felt like you were responsible for someone else's happiness?

• Are there opportunities to release that mentality because it's not yours to carry around? Can you let it go to focus on your own healing?

• Is there a responsibility you’re carrying that isn’t truly yours, and how can you see it in a lighter way?

Thanks for joining me on this Wise Walk. Remember, the weights we carry—whether they’re from past hurts, disappointments, or expectations—are ours to release. Forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves, and it lightens our path forward.

So, as you go through your week, reflect on what you’re ready to let go of, and embrace the freedom that comes with it. Until next time, keep prioritizing fun as you read the signs, direct your path, and get your stride on!

In this episode:

[05:19] When I was young and inexperienced I saw things very black and white. Meaning, I had a clear sense of right and wrong. As we grow up we learn that there are so many shades of gray between that black and white.

[06:04] Everyone needs to find alignment for themselves. Their choices are their choices, and my choices are my choices.

[07:20] Releasing expectations has brought me peace when I have felt wronged in the past.

[09:16] Honoring how we show up and forgiving and releasing the baggage that we have from the past.

[10:05] "You attract that which you fear most until you heal it." Buddha saying.

[11:16] When we cling to our past trauma, we miss out on all of the good stuff and the opportunity to invite goodness into our lives.

[13:06] Sometimes I'm weighed down by my desire to help others. Sometimes the best thing we can do is allow them to help themselves.

[17:45] What is one weight that you can release and allow compassion for yourself? Intentionally explore ways to release that weight.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Forgiveness isn’t just about letting others off the hook; it’s about releasing the emotional weight we carry, so we can feel lighter and happier.” - Mary Tess
  
• “We often hold onto expectations of others, but sometimes the best way to find peace is to let go of those expectations and focus on what aligns with our own heart.” - Mary Tess
  
• “The more we practice the muscle of forgiveness—letting go of things that no longer serve us—the stronger and lighter we become.” - Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

Mary Tess Rooney

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