Why is it that I find myself, as a good, loving, and caring person, often weighed down by feelings of guilt? It's a recurring pattern, and I notice it happening to others who are well-meaning and kind. Guilt, I've come to believe, is an unhealthy trait, a burdensome weight on our shoulders that contributes to stress-related problems. Regardless of the type of guilt we experience, it seems imperative to release it.
In the realm of relationships, I've observed that guilt frequently or can arise from telling white lies. Initially harmless, these lies start to induce guilt as we carry them with us. The remedy, it appears, is to come clean, tell the truth, and commit to change. Telling the truth, even though it might hurt someone, serves as a means to alleviate the heavy burden of guilt. In this process, I contemplate whether I'm confessing to the other person or, in truth, to myself.
Continuing with the same lie in any situation only adds to the weight of guilt. It can transform a simple white lie, meant to keep the peace, into a complex web of deception, making me feel sneaky and reserved. The consequences of maintaining such a facade lead to heightened guilt and stress, prompting us to question the worth of the initial lie.
Another source of guilt that resonates with me is the inherent guilt associated with being human. Witnessing the atrocities committed worldwide by fellow humans is profoundly distressing, and it's challenging not to feel guilty on behalf of my species. Even when I acknowledge my lack of contribution to these atrocities, the guilt persists, and the realisation that I can do little to change or alleviate such global suffering is disheartening.
While I don't claim to have the definitive answer for maintaining a clear mind, I believe in the necessity of letting go of guilt. Personally, I've adopted the practice of kindness as a coping mechanism. Being kind to everyone I encounter, despite the challenges, is a conscious effort. Small acts of generosity, like offering a smile to someone going through a tough time, become my way of making a positive difference. Occasionally, I extend this to tangible assistance, such as providing money or buying a meal for someone in need. It's not about seeking recognition but rather a means of releasing my own guilt regarding the state of the world.
In recognising that much of what happens in the world stems from the actions of others driven by greed, I've learned not to internalise their actions as my own guilt. If guilt becomes a source of trouble in my health or relationships, I prioritise letting it go. If this means confessing and telling the truth, or if it leads to the end of a relationship, anything at all, then so be it. I've come to understand that carrying guilt is a significant contributor to stress, and by releasing it, I anticipate an improvement in my overall health and well-being.
Love, Light and Blessings.