PEACE: It can start with you

Wow, a new year and new beginnings are on the horizon! As the years pass I continue to search for ways to improve myself and my life for the benefit of others and my family.

Recently, I unloaded a burden that I had been carrying around for years. It weighed me down and unbeknown to me it had an adverse effect on other interpersonal relationships in my life. Out of this release I discovered that one of the most liberating acts a person can carry out is the act of moving on.

For me, this is summed up by the saying, "Let Go and Let God." For the agnostic and atheist, such a concept might sit uncomfortably, so for them I say find the greater good and meditate on such because everyone is entitled to serenity.

The other side of moving on is forgiveness, beginning with yourself. Sometimes this can be more challenging than forgiving others but don't you have a right to happiness and to be liberated from your past? Yes, letting go and forgiving yourself (and others) has all the benefits of a life worth living. How others might perceive this act might have them believing you to be weak but as it is said, "Do not mistake kindness for weakness." In the end, moving on might just present you with a peace of mind that will wipe the frown off that beautiful mug of yours. Happy New Year!

JOSHUA HARRISON

Coeur d'Alene