I’m like cement. Once I’m “set,” I am rock hard. That’s my nature … to go in a direction and not veer from it, no matter what. That’s why “letting go” is so very difficult for me and may be for you, too.
Letting go of the past that you cannot undo. Letting go of the warped view you have of yourself. Letting go of the hurts that you hold onto. Letting go of the mistakes you once made. Letting go of the anger that’s consuming you. Letting go of condemnation, so you can live free. Letting go is giving up what is beyond your control to embrace change. “Let it go” — it sounds so simple. But there are times (many in my life) when it’s not clear what we’re supposed to let go of. And then there are other times we want to let go, we try to let go—and nothing happens. That’s frustrating.
Sometimes there’s a difference in what we want to give up and what we need to release. We might be holding tightly to something we think of as good, like better health for a loved one or changed behavior in a wayward child. And though it’s never wrong to desire good things, there are times when we have to let go of what we think is best.
I’m still a trainee in the “letting go” department, but when I read scripture I’m reminded to let go of your (my) own will. Jesus prayed: “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). It’s NOT easy, but it does lead to peace and joy, even when the path is difficult. “Father, I place my life in Your hands!” (Luke 23:46).
