Much has been made already, one day after the most recent Democratic candidate debate, about the two women, Amy Klobuchar and Elizabeth Warren, when the question was asked if they would ask for forgiveness or present a gift to any of their rivals on stage. Both women chose forgiveness. The prevailing opinion is that women somehow feel like they must apologize for their aggressive behavior…that somehow the choice of forgiveness was more in line with the traditional feminine gender role. For the record, all of the men chose to offer a gift, and three chose to present a copy of their own book.
Well I’m calling BS on this line of thinking. You know what? Women aren’t afraid to self evaluate. They’re not afraid to admit that they aren’t perfect and could maybe have done something better. They realize there is more to learn or maybe something higher to aspire towards. The practice of forgiving others, and asking for forgiveness, is what makes women more approachable and relatable. Women realize that forgiveness isn’t about the other person. Forgiveness is what lifts the burden from their own shoulders to make room for new ideas, clarity and compassion.
Forgiveness is a powerful and empowering spiritual practice. It requires you to look within your own self and decide to release whatever feels like a burden to you. It doesn’t matter what the other person did or didn’t do. It doesn’t matter if they accept your apology. It doesn’t matter if others judge you or think it’s a sign of weakness. Forgiveness frees the spirit and makes room for your next greatest self to emerge.
Go ahead…let others chuckle at your courage to ask for forgiveness. Only you will know how empowering it is to walk in this world free from the burden of perfection. Only you will know the gift of humility.
Much love always
Paula
