No Regrets

There are so many times in our daily lives when it feels as though we’ve said or done something we shouldn’t have or we’ve failed to do or say something that we should have. When we reflect on our past there are times when we are not proud of the person we have been.

Knowing that we cannot turn back time to make amends can lead to the feeling of regret.

I want to tell you about a simple practice that has amazing benefit. It is drawn from the ancient ritual of Ho’oponopono. (Pronounce it by brushing over the first few syllables and lingering on the pono pono, “ho-o-pono-pono”.) It means “to make things right.”

Originally it included an entire family’s participation in a process that was used to explore and resolve problems and reach reconciliation. Isn’t that beautiful?

The more I read about it, the more fascinated I become by the richness of this ancient tradition, in particular it’s teaching about our deep connection to one another. It teaches that what we see (and often don’t like) in others is actually a mirrored version of ourselves. And that our responsibility rather than trying to change another is to heal the worlds wounds by healing what looks like their wounds but is actually our own wounds (and theirs too because we’re all connected).

It’s actually more mind bending than I am able to put into words right now but suffice it to say that what you see is not always “out there”. And the way to change what seems to be “out there” can only happen by changing yourself. How exciting!

This simplified version of the Ho ‘oponopono practice is easy to access by those who have not been initiated into the ancient teachings.

In the moment when you feel regret, disappointment, or any other challenging emotion beginning to move in, say these words out loud to yourself…

“I love you. I’m sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you.”

Such simple words when spoken with the intention of compassion are a healing balm.

By saying the words in a time of personal need you clear hurt with love, forgiveness and gratitude, and you increase your capacity to be present in the world. The words break up old patterns and help you find a place of freedom a place where you can see and act more clearly.

See for yourself. Try it right now. Say, “I love you. I’m sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you.”

Let these simple words bring you to a place that is free.