Relationship
How unforgiveness, resentments destroy relationships and marriages
Unforgiveness and resentments can be toxic to relationships and marriages, causing irreparable damage if left unchecked. As a founder and director of an award-winning mental health and counselling firm, CPAC, I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of unresolved bitterness and anger on couples.
Imagine carrying a heavy backpack everywhere you go, filled with rocks representing past hurts and betrayals. Each rock weighs you down, making it harder to move forward. That is what unforgiveness can feel like in a relationship. When we refuse to forgive, we create a toxic environment that poisons our relationships.
Resentment can be a major obstacle to building and maintaining healthy relationships. When we harbor resentment, we can become preoccupied with past hurts, replaying them over and over in our minds. This can lead to feelings of anger, bitterness, and frustration, causing us to lash out at our partner or become withdrawn and distant.
Consider the story of Gifty and Daniel, a couple who had been married for 10 years. Gifty felt deeply hurt and betrayed when Daniel had an affair several years ago. Despite Daniel’s apology and efforts to rebuild their relationship, Gifty struggled to forgive. If they don’t receive lasting support, how do you think this will impact their marriage going forward?
The power of forgiveness
Forgiveness is a process that allows us to release the negative emotions associated with a particular hurt or betrayal. It is not about forgetting or condoning the offense, but rather about releasing the hold it has on us. Forgiveness can be a powerful tool for healing and rebuilding relationships.
Practical steps to forgiveness
1. Acknowledge your feelings: Recognise how you feel and give yourself permission to process those emotions.
2. Identify the hurt: Understand the specific hurt or betrayal that is causing your pain.
3. Let go of the need for revenge: Recognise that seeking revenge will not bring healing or closure.
4. Choose to forgive: Make a conscious decision to forgive, not for the other person’s sake, but for yours.
5. Work on rebuilding trust: If the hurt was caused by a betrayal of trust, work on rebuilding it through consistent changed behaviour and open communication.
Effective communication is key to resolving conflicts and rebuilding relationships. Couples should prioritise open and honest communication, actively listening to each other, and clarifying expectations. By doing so, they can avoid most misunderstandings and work through challenges together.
Practical tips for couples
– Practice empathy: Try to understand your partner’s perspective and feelings.
– Use “I” statements: Instead of blaming your partner, use “I” statements to express your feelings and thoughts.
– Take responsibility: Own up to your mistakes and take responsibility for your actions.
– Seek support: Consider couples therapy or counseling (check out Counselor Prince & Associates Consult, CPAC) to work through challenges and strengthen your relationship.
By following these practical tips and working on forgiveness, couples can build a stronger, more loving relationship that will stand the test of time.
In conclusion, unforgiveness and resentments can be toxic to relationships and marriages. By choosing to forgive and working on rebuilding trust, couples can create a stronger, more resilient relationship. Remember, forgiveness is a process, and it may take time. But with effort, commitment, and a willingness to work through challenges, couples can overcome the obstacles that stand in their way.
To be continued …
Source: Excerpts from “COURTSHIP MATTERS: Keys to a Fulfilling Lasting Marriage” Book by REV. COUNSELOR PRINCE OFFEI (Lecturer, Published Author, and Marriage Counsellor).
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COUNSELOR PRINCE & ASSOCIATES CONSULT (CPAC COUNSELLOR TRAINING INSTITUTE)
By Counselor Prince Offei
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