Guilt and shame are probably a good emotion to feel - to a point. What if we didn't feel guilty? Then we would probably not have any kind of moral compass to help guide us through life. And that's probably who the criminals are in this world - people who have no feelings of guilt.

But, why do we hold on to our guilt? Are we still participating in actions that we feel guilty about? Then, guilt is probably useful. It should help us to avoid actions that don't adhere to our own values.

But, what if we're not doing the actions that we're carrying guilt around for? What is the practical use of carrying that guilt around? Isn't the past the past? What's done is done? Why can't we let go?

Sometimes I think I may be pursuing a path of self-gratification by holding on to my guilt. I know that doesn't make sense but if you think about it a bit, it keeps my attentions focused on ME. And if I'm focused on me, my goodness, isn't that the most important thing in the world??? Me!

What if I tried to change my focus off of me? What if I took a look around? What if I threw myself into doing good for others? What if I engaged in some selfless acts towards people in need? What if I gave instead of took? I "take" when I'm so self-absorbed.

So, if I think about others instead of myself, maybe I'll forget my misdeeds and they will become part of a forgotten story. A story that held import in its time but is no longer relevant. What if we believed we could change the story? Can we not choose to be who we want to be? Must the past imprison us forever?