Finding Peace Painting

"I forgive myself. I forgive myself for not understanding, for the mistakes I’ve made in the past, for not having all the answers, for making the wrong decisions, for being impatient, for letting anger and fear get the best of me, and feeling subdued. I forgive myself for failing, for giving up, for taking too much, for not giving compassion and kindness where it was due, for not thinking before speaking, for being too pushy, for letting my ego get out of control, for being judgmental, mean, and rude. I forgive myself for not learning the first time around, and the second, for not knowing better, for not making better decisions, for not being courageous, strong, and in a good mood. I forgive myself, for I am not perfect. I did not know much as a child. I did not know it all when I turned 18, 30, and 45. But I do know more now as time has accrued. So, I forgive myself because I have made many mistakes, and as the saying goes, “If only I would’ve known then what I know now.” But I didn’t, and today I do. I can’t change the past, but I can use it as a tool in order to create a better future. But first, I must forgive myself. How about you?" By Nikki W.