Atomic Essay 9: Everyone talks about gratitude everyday. Why does no one talk about forgiveness everyday?
Gratitude feels positive and socially palatable, while forgiveness requires confronting.
To err is human. Mistakes are inevitable, often unintentional, and part of life. That’s okay. What’s not okay is letting those mistakes weigh us down — consciously or, worse, subconsciously.
I like to think I’m a decent person. I try to do good and live with intention. But recently, as I revisited old photos, chats, and memories, I stumbled upon versions of myself I didn’t love. Moments where I fell short. Missteps I couldn’t deny. And I realized something: those unresolved mistakes were still shaping me. They had quietly eroded my confidence, my trust in myself, and even the way I showed up in relationships and opportunities.
So, I decided to face them. I made a list — not to dwell, but to understand. I reflected on where I went wrong and, most importantly, forgave myself. Then, I wrote down actionable changes, small but meaningful steps to grow from those moments. That simple act of acknowledgment and forgiveness was liberating.
Now, I’ve turned this into a ritual. Every week, I take time to reflect — not just on what went well, but also on the things I wish I’d handled better. Mistakes don’t scare me as much anymore because they no longer define me. Forgiving myself and others has become a quiet rebellion against the weight of perfectionism.
The truth is, forgiveness — real, active forgiveness — isn’t just about letting go; it’s about making room. Room for trust, for growth, for inner peace. It’s a gift I now give regularly, and I’m stronger for it.
About my atomic essays: Let’s be informed, not influenced
As an adult, we stop asking questions. Or at least at the same frequency as we did as kids. I want to change that.
I want to ask more questions, and ask the right questions. These questions are not necessarily to find A RIGHT answer. They’re all about making me think more, reflect on things, and maybe even challenge some of the stuff I thought I knew.
I take it as a little adventure for my brain. Each question is like a puzzle piece, and when I put them together, they create a bigger picture of understanding. It’s a small step to become a bit better at life.
