Forgiveness of the Self Is One of the Most Sacred Journeys on the Path of Healing.
It Requires Honesty, Courage and Compassion.
In Many Native American Teachings, We Do Not Separate Ourselves From Nature. Just as the River Keeps Flowing Despite the Stones in Its Path, You Must Learn to Keep Flowing, Even When You Have Made Mistakes.
You Are Not the Harm You have Lived Through or the Harm You have Caused in Unawareness. You Are a Spirit in Human Form, Learning. Mistakes Are Teachers, and Regret Is a Sign You Are Returning to Your True Self.
When You Withhold Forgiveness From Yourself, You Block the Medicine That Lives Within.
To Walk in Balance, You Must First Offer Kindness to Your Own Heart.
Affirmation:
“I Forgive Myself. I Am Worthy of Healing, Growth, and Peace. I Choose to Release the Burdens That Are Not Meant to Be Carried Any Longer.”
Cultural Tip:
Many Native Ceremonies Focus on Renewal. Sweat Lodge, Smudging and Water Ceremonies Are Used to Cleanse the Spirit of Shame and Guilt. Speak Aloud to the Fire or River What You Are Releasing and Offer It to the Elements.
Water Activity:
Pour Water Over Your Hands or Face While Saying, “I Release the Past. I Am Made Clean.” Feel the Water Carry Your Regrets Away. Do This Each Morning or After a Heavy Emotional Day.
Prayer:
“Creator, Help Me See Myself With Compassion. Remind Me That I Am Still Growing and Still Loved. Teach Me How to Walk in a New Way, and Let Me Be a Light to Others Still in Darkness.”
Daily Activity:
Write a Letter to Your Younger Self or to a Version of You That Made Mistakes. Read It Aloud. End the Letter With Words of Forgiveness, and Burn or Bury It to Mark a Spiritual Release.
Indigenous Language Word:
In Ojibwe, Zaagi’idiwin Means “Love.” Use This Word as a Reminder That Love Must Begin Within.
Journal Prompt:
“What Do I Still Blame Myself For? If I Were My Own Child, What Would I Say to Comfort and Forgive Myself?”
Reflection for Slowing Down:
You Cannot Heal What You Condemn. When You Forgive Yourself, You Do Not Excuse the Harm. You Transform It. This Is Not Weakness, but Wisdom. Begin Again, as Many Times as You Need. Your Spirit Was Never Meant to Carry Shame.