Dearest @Diurnal,

Oh, I can sooooo relate to this. I have been abused by multiple people. MANY - and too many to count.

Just earlier this week, after TWO YEARS of no contact, I sent my abusive ex fiance an email saying simply these words "I forgive you. That's all. Take care".

I sent another abuser, with whom I haven't spoken in SIX years, the same exact email.

And you know what? It's allowed me to let go of all that negative energy, anger and pain.

I am not saying OR suggesting that you need to do the same. But forgiving them for me has been a necessary step in my own healing process.

The fact of the matter is: we can hold onto that anger, anguish and pain for years..... years and years. In the end, it's only harming US and our ability to be happy and free. So it serves no purpose except to continue to ruin our lives and to ruin our happiness.

So at some point, I think there comes a need for a decision. Am I going to continue to hold onto the pain, or am I going to release it so that I can truly be happy?

Releasing the pain can take on various forms. You can forgive the person for failing you, for hurting you and for disappointing you In your own heart and mind without even telling them.

We can forgive them for their wrongdoings and failures, but we don't have to forget.

I am now seeing that forgiveness does lead to greater inner peace. I feel lighter, I feel happier and I feel freedom from the bondage that held me back.

That's just my two cents.

I'm wishing peace and healing for you.