How to Forgive Oneself

[FuzzyBunny116]

I did something a long time ago which I confessed and repented to, but am having trouble forgiving myself for.

I can’t help but feel guilty for it, and even to feel that by trying to avoid the feeling of guilt, I am in some sense avoiding the just “punishment” for what I did - that I deserve these sufferings and that there is something wrong in trying to avoid them.

 

[JW55]

If you gave a sincere confession and explained your sins to the priest in sufficient detail that he could provide you with the correct penance and guidance, I think you can be assured that God has forgiven you. If there are things you may have to do to provide retribution to others that you may have hurt in some way, that may be something to consider and you may want to consult your spiritual advisor about this.

The guilt you feel may be serving as a reminder to help you avoid committing the same sins again. Of course, this shouldn’t be so much that it is preventing you from living a productive life or is interfering in furthering your spiritual walk.

I think everyone carries a certain amount of remorse for something. One important thing is that we have learned from it and do our best to avoid future errors.

 

[Chiltepin]

We are all welcome to do more pennance than what is assigned. Provided that you do understand and believe you were forgiven, you could do more pennance.

 

[phoooiee]

Just concentrate on following whatever path makes you feel most loving- even if that path seems absurd or too difficult.

 

[raaucoin]

Is it a situation where there is some damage that can be undone. if it is possible to make ammends in such a way, then do so.If fixing it isn’t possible then we turn to the Lord in trust that He can.

I finally had to forgive myself when i realized that God forgave me. By holding out not forgiving myself it was like saying “yes, God forgives me but I am a greater authority that I choose to subject myself to.” I realized that in not accepting God’s forgiveness as the final word, I was insulting His power and Majesty.