June 14--That Word--"Should"

It's not just other people we need to forgive. We also need to forgive ourselves. For all the things we didn't do. For all the things we should have done. You can't get stuck on the regrets of what should have happened.  --Mitch Albom

     The key word here is "should." Any time that word is involved, there is internal conflict between what you want to be/do/have and what you "should" be/do/have. Simply being cognizant of that word in one's speech and internal chatter can be a game-changer. You can't operate on "should" for long without generating plenty of regret.
     I think most of us, looking back, may have done some things differently. It's a useful reminder that we were actually doing our best at the time, even if that doesn't appear to be the case in hindsight. When we know better, we do better. If we are paying attention, wisdom comes with age, including the wisdom of not beating up on ourselves for past omissions or commissions.
    Another helpful reminder is to treat myself as I would my best friend. Criticism does not make for a good friendship, nor does it make for a good relationship with myself. If I can't be my own best friend, there's some internal work to be done, i.e., forgiveness.
     Doing my best, today,
            Leta

P.S. Barn quilt #4 completed.