In completing the Person-Activity Fit Diagnostic in The How of Happiness by Sonja Lyubomirsky (2007), I have discovered four activities that should increase my level of happiness.
These include: practicing religion and spirituality, expressing gratitude, learning to forgive and nurturing relationships.
After some consideration I have decided to challenge myself and learn to forgive. In order to do this, Lyubomirsky (2007) suggests “keeping a journal or writing a letter in which you work on letting go of anger and resentment towards one or more individuals who have hurt you or wronged you.” My goal over the next five weeks is to forgive five individuals, in hopes that this activity will bring me one step closer to an even happier and fulfilling life. Perhaps this activity will provide me with the skills I need to become a more forgiving and understanding person in the future.
And for inspiration I look to the One who gives us a perfect example of forgiveness…
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Colossians 3:13 NIV)
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” (1 Corinthians 13:4-5 NIV)
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32 NIV)
“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 18: 21-22 NIV)