So, today, I was reading in the Saint Germain on Advanced Alchemy book about what he terms “radical forgiveness”. Seeing as I have an article to write, I got to thinking. How does this relate to parenting?

Well, for me personally, parenting has been – and continues to be - an opportunity to grow up. To mature emotionally. There have been many times, and doubtless will be many more, when I have the opportunity, nay, responsibility, to forgive my kids for something they have done that has not been to my liking. Sure, that’s what kids do, you say. True. But when you are in the midst of it you may not feel just like being forgiving and loving in the heat of the moment. Now, I’m not talking about not giving consequences. Appropriate consequences are good, loving and necessary. I’m talking about not holding grudges in your feelings at such times as this. 

Saint Germain talks about embracing, loving, and focusing on God in each one and putting aside those memories of what others have done. He even states that our health depends upon it! This we have heard from other sources. It is said, that the reason you forgive others, is not for their sake (though it does help them) but for your own. Hence, we have that wonderful reminder of “I love you, I’m sorry, please forgive me, thank you".

So, bringing this back to parenting. When I talk to my kids after time out, we like to hug and say “I’m sorry” and “I accept your apology” and “I love you” and “I love you too.” Sometimes I elaborate that although I don’t enjoy or approve of certain behavior, I love who they are and that they are not that.

Another interesting aspect of this radical forgiveness that Saint Germain talks about, is forgiving yourself. It’s true that it’s hard, if not impossible, to truly forgive others if you can’t forgive yourself. So, let the forgiveness flow, for you as a parent as well! Let’s engage in radical forgiveness and bring our parenting up another notch!

Please share. Do you have any forgiveness rituals in your household? What are they?