Holding onto resentment feels like dragging around a heavy backpack stuffed with old hurts. We might think it protects us or somehow punishes the person who wronged us, but really, we’re the ones stuck carrying that weight.

And here’s the kicker—the other person probably doesn’t even know we’re upset! Meanwhile, we’re the ones replaying that anger, pain, or frustration over and over in our minds.

Letting go doesn’t mean you’re saying what happened is okay, and it certainly doesn’t mean you’ll forget it. It simply means freeing yourself from that hurt or irritation and moving on. Sometimes, we hold onto resentment because we think letting go means the other person “wins” – but that’s like drinking poison and expecting somebody else to get sick. In the end, you’re the one who suffers.

Letting go isn’t always quick or easy, and that’s alright. Your feelings are understandable, but you don’t have to keep carrying them. Instead, focus on what you can control—your thoughts, your actions, right here, right now.

Remember, letting go isn’t about the other person. It’s about choosing your own peace over the weight of the past.

Today’s Peace of Wisdom can be found when we let go.