In Native American Traditions, All Things Are Interconnected.
When We Hurt Another, We Also Disturb the Balance of the Web of Life. To Ask for Forgiveness Is Not to Weaken Yourself-It Is to Restore Harmony Within the Circle.
True Apology Requires Responsibility, Humility and an Open Heart. It Is a Gift to the One We Hurt, but It Is Also a Gift to Ourselves and to the Spirit World.
The Ancestors Watch How We Treat Others and How We Make Amends.
Approach the Act of Asking Forgiveness With Ceremony. Speak With Intention. Let the Words Be Carried Not Only by the Mouth, but by the Heart.
Affirmation:
“I Have the Courage to Make Things Right. I Ask for Forgiveness With Sincerity, Humility and Love.”
Cultural Tip:
In Many Native American Nations, Restorative Justice and Peacemaking Circles Are Held Where All Voices Are Heard. Apologies Are Offered With the Talking Stick in Hand, So the Words Come From a Place of Respect and Intention.
Water Activity:
Before You Ask for Forgiveness, Cleanse Yourself. Wash Your Hands in a Flowing Stream or Pour Water Over Them at Home. Say, “May My Words Be Clean. May My Heart Be Light.”
Prayer:
“Creator, Walk With Me as I Seek to Make Peace. Let My Words Be Truthful and My Spirit Be Soft. Help Me Restore the Sacred Thread Between Myself and Those I’ve Hurt.”
Daily Activity:
Reflect on Someone You May Have Harmed, through Action, Silence, or Distance. Write Down What You Would Say to Them in Person. If Safe, Reach Out. If Not, Offer the Words to the Fire, to the Earth, or to the Water.
Indigenous Language Word:
In Lakota, Wo’ohitika Means “Courage.” You Will Need This Virtue to Apologize From the Heart.
Journal Prompt:
“What Keeps Me From Asking for Forgiveness? What Am I Truly Afraid Of? What Would It Feel Like to Live Free From Guilt or Division?”
Reflection for Slowing Down:
Rushing Into Apology Without Reflection Can Cause More Harm. Take the Time to Understand the Depth of the Hurt You Caused. Sit With the Truth, Then Move Forward With Love. When You Ask for Forgiveness From the Soul, Even If It Is Not Received, You Have Returned to the Path of Integrity.