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Why It’s Important to Give and Forgive

This year... I'm going to grow through life – not just go through life.

I learned years ago that we’re either in a state of growth or a state of decay. As we approach the New Year, this is a powerful reminder to let go of the old, so we can make room for the new. We tend to weigh ourselves down with not only tangible things, but regretful feelings that keep us stuck in the past.

Make this year the year you move forward. Let go of your “stuff” – give the tangible things away and forgive yourself or those around you. “Give” is the root word of “forgive”. Forgiveness is the ultimate gift.

When you withhold forgiveness, you are not hurting the person that hurt you (even though it may make you feel it gives you power), it hurts you. Unresolved conflicts take up space in your brain and drain your energy that could be better used to enrich your own life or serve others.

When it comes to new beginnings and growth, Ralph Waldo Emerson said it best…

“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.
He is rich who owns the day, and no one owns the day
who allows it to be invaded with fret and anxiety.

Finish every day and be done with it.
You have done what you could.
Some blunders and absurdities, no doubt crept in.
Forget them as soon as you can, tomorrow is a new day;
begin it well and serenely, with too high a spirit
to be cumbered with your old nonsense.

This new day is too dear,
with its hopes and invitations,
to waste a moment on the yesterdays.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson

Welcome every morning as a fresh experience. Leave behind your regrets, past foibles, or perceived shortcomings, and acknowledge that you and those around you are doing their best.

xo

Karen Owoc

Karen Owoc is a certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist specializing in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and lifestyle medicine. Her science-based approach to longevity, nutrition, and muscle health has made her the go-to source for health seekers and medical professionals alike. Karen's best-selling book on functional longevity, "Athletes in Aprons: The Nutrition Playbook to Break 100", and her transformative perspective have mended many minds, hearts, and spirits.

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