I read of a New Jersey artist who capitalized on people's needless guilt by
selling them "guilt kits." Each kit contained ten disposable brown paper bags
and a set of instructions which said, "Place bag securely over your mouth, take
a deep breath and blow the guilt out. Dispose of bag immediately." Amazingly,
about 2,500 kits sold at $2.50 each! The artist was in tune with just how much
guilt people seem to carry around with them.
Of course, guilt serves its purpose, and I understand the use of the kit as a
symbol of ridding ourselves of unnecessary, or destructive guilt. But guilt
might better be handled at its root.
To live free from needless guilt, try these steps:
1. If a mistake was made, resolve never to repeat that mistake. The whole
function of guilt is to change behaviour.
2. Seek forgiveness from any others who were affected, if possible.
3. Use your spiritual resources. There is great power in knowing that, in an
ultimate sense, you are forgiven.
4. Forgive yourself. No purpose is served in continuing to whip yourself over
past events you can do nothing else about.
If you follow these steps, you can rid your life of unnecessary guilt. I believe
that you will find that you are happier and healthier -- and you can save the
brown paper bags for lunch!
Author unknown. If anyone has a proprietary interest in this story please
authenticate and I will be happy to credit, or remove, as the circumstances
dictate.
Thanks to Life Support
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