Abuela Alma: "I was given a miracle. A second chance. And I was so afraid to lose it that I forgot who it was for."

Mirabel: "It’s for us."

~ Disney’s Encanto (2021)

A moment of reconciliation and forgiveness between Abuela Alma and Mirabel. This scene reminds us of the importance of letting go of fear and allowing compassion to heal relationships. As you gather with loved ones to celebrate the holidays, consider where forgiveness may be needed in your life—forgiveness between others, forgiveness toward yourself. Letting go of resentment and clearing emotional clutter can light the way to deeper connections and a brighter last month of the year.

Forgiveness is not always easy, especially when the hurt runs deep. Yet, holding onto grudges weighs you down and can stifle your creativity more than you may realize. Forgiveness is not about forgetting or condoning wrongdoings. It is about releasing the hold that anger and pain have over you, freeing you from negativity, and opening your heart.

The holidays are a time for love, togetherness, and reflection. They offer a chance to pause and focus on what truly matters. When you forgive, you allow yourself to be present, to fully experience the warmth of the moment without the pull of pains from the past. Though, I get it. Forgiveness is not always easy to feel, let alone express. I struggle with this, too.

Forgiving When It Feels Hard

Acknowledge Your Feelings:

Give yourself permission to feel hurt or angry. I have been there too, someone pushing you out to further themselves. It sucks. However, you have to figure out a way to move on to other creative endeavors. Naming your emotions begins the process of releasing them. Suppressing feelings only extends their hold on you.

Practice Empathy:

Try to understand the other person’s perspective. This does not mean excusing their actions; only seeking to understand. Recognizing that everyone carries their own struggles and gremlins that torment them can help shift your mindset from stuck to unstuck.

Start Small:

If forgiveness feels overwhelming, begin by forgiving minor offenses to build the habit. Small acts of forgiveness lay the foundation for greater ones.

Focus on the Present:

Letting go of past grievances allows you to live fully in the moment. I often say, “for-giving is for-living.”

Be Patient:

Forgiveness takes time. Take one step at a time and be kind to yourself as you work through it. Some wounds take longer to heal, and that is okay.

This holiday, let forgiveness be the gift you give yourself and others. Your heart will be fuller for it.

"The miracle is not some magic you’ve got—the miracle is you. All of you." - Encanto

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