Forgive them Today.

Years ago, I remember informing my mother of George Clooney's Oscar win. She responded by informing me of her great disdain for him. When I asked her why it was revealed that he has the "nerve and disrespect" to make "inappropriate comments" when it is not his place to do so. She continued by reminding me that "everyone knows it; it is 'common sense.'" When I asked how his political opinions related to the quality of his artistic endeavors, I was subjected to an editorial about the "Hollywood crowd" and how many (including me) simply go along with some things because they are socially acceptable. This inspired flashbacks to a conversation with my dad who refused to view Sean Penn's films because he had the nerve to go to Iraq. (SILENT SCREAM!)

I was outraged, demanding examples and reminding my religious mother that Jesus could never have delivered his message if he had resigned himself to the societal opinion of acceptability (common sense?) as dictated by the Pharisees. Well, you can only imagine that conversation that ensued. This resulted in my insistence on an apology for insinuating that I was not intelligent enough to come to my own understanding and views without being influenced by society. Naturally, I gave into the inclination to accentuate my Mom's love of Bill O'Reilly and Fox News to draw what I believed to be a relevant comparison to McCarthyism. We ended our telephone conversation in a huff.

I stewed in my own juices for 90 minutes, feeling the weight of injustice as well as (what I deemed to be) the insensitivity and ignorance of the one who gave me birth. My heart was tight, beating rapidly and was filled with hurt and anger.

I was given a choice. I could either wait for my mom to "get it," own up to her "irrational" behavior and apologize (as I demanded) or I could simply connect with her and suggest that we let it go. I chose to anchor myself in the love that I subscribe to philosophically and release the importance of being right. I called her, told her that I loved her and that we could just agree to disagree, that it really was not important. She was not warm in her response. Instead, she chose to defend her stance. The important thing for me was that I released myself from the bondage of self-righteousness and my need to make her "wrong." I was acting in the very manner that I was arguing against (and all for an actor that I do not know or even care about!).

The best reminder for me is the one that you hear so often: harboring resentment is like taking poison and waiting for the other person to die. There are more effective ways to utilize your energy! Is there anyone that you are not forgiving today? Consider the cost. Is it truly worth it?

Success or sabotage?  You must define your own levels of success. Negative energy inhibits your ability to perform at your very best. Weigh your battles!

Is this going to be an incredible day? I am choosing to make it so--how about you?