When we carry the burden of resentment, we encourage negative thoughts, a worrisome heart, and self-serving plans. Harboring resentment for others can blur the lens through which we view the world.

Resentment is defined as, “bitter indignation at having been treated unfairly.” The keyword is indignation. Indignation is anger or annoyance provoked by what is perceived as unfair treatment. 

The next time you’re “treated unfairly,” pause to recognize if it’s a real problem or a perceived injustice. Ask yourself if you could’ve acted differently. 

This question can encourage you to see other perspectives and sometimes prevent an unpleasant interaction. 

When we take ownership of our own wrongdoing in a situation, it frees us from the burden of resentment and teaches us a lesson…if we’ll let it. 

Maybe you’re thinking, “Wait, but what if I really didn’t do anything wrong?” 

Even if you didn’t, fostering bitterness because of someone else’s actions ensures that you will continue to suffer. Giving others’ actions undue power to change how you navigate the world is inefficient at best. 

Today’s Peace of Wisdom can be found in taking stock of our resentments and analyzing their true validity.