Don't Pick that Scab

I remember clearly when I was a child hearing my parents say "if you keep picking at that scab it isn't going to heal" I would always respond with something like "but it itches" and I knew good and well that it would eventually heal even if I kept picking at it. Yes, you got me, I have a bit of a stubborn streak, not to mention I was never one of this kids who thought my parents knew everything, in fact, family debates were quite frequent when I was growing up, always respectfully of course, questioning pretty much everything. Little did I know those same words would echo into my future regarding booboos but not just the physical ones.

Years ago I was going through a very dark period in my marriage and it was not uncommon for me to go to my sisters house to talk things through with her and her husband, mostly just to process through my feelings to get to the real heart of my anger or pain. I will never forget my brother in law telling me that the more you talk and think about something the worse it gets. As the words of my childhood echoed into my present it was clear that he was saying "don't pick the scab or it won't heal". Thilose words finally resonated with me and I began to make an effort to vent less about my pain and anger, not just regarding my husband, but anyone who hurt me or made me angry. Truth is time does heal wounds but just how long it will take is totally up to you.

Learning the art of forgiveness begins at the tip of your tongue (that just came to me like a whisper in my ear), those feelings that just want to pour out to releive some emotional pressure can actually keep those feelings alive while prolonging the opportunity for healing and growth.  We often forget that forgiveness isn't just about righting a wrong, forgiveness about healing and the longer you choose to dwell on that anger and pain the longer it will take for you to move passed it so that it can heal. So the next time you are in this situation "don't pick at that scab" give it some healing time, however if you really need to vent it through try praying for that person, take it to God, cause its really difficult to stay upset with someone you are praying for. I still vent from time to time but I remind myself often that if I don't let it go and leave it alone the longer those horrible feelings of hurt and anger linger and steal my joy, and between you and me......I really like joy!