By La Trecia Doyle-Thaxton
Forgiveness is often painted as this noble act that liberates the forgiver, but let’s be real—it’s not always that simple. Sometimes, forgiveness feels heavy, especially when it seems like the universe immediately serves up karma to those who’ve wronged us. It can feel like forgiveness is the catalyst for their consequences, making us question if we’ve truly let go or if we’re somehow seeking vengeance on a cosmic level.
If this resonates with you, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too, and I’ve learned some hard truths about forgiveness, karma, and letting go. Let’s dive into what you really need to know to move forward without fear.
What Forgiveness Actually Is (and Isn’t)
First, let’s redefine forgiveness. Forgiveness isn’t about excusing someone’s behavior or absolving them of responsibility. It’s about reclaiming your power. When you forgive, you’re saying, “I refuse to carry the weight of your actions any longer.”
Forgiveness is an act of freedom for yourself. It’s not a signal to the universe to punish someone. What happens to them is between them and the energies they’ve created through their actions.
Understanding Karma’s Role
Here’s the thing about karma: it’s not vengeance, and it’s definitely not something you control. Karma is the natural balancing of energy. People reap what they sow, and their actions—not your forgiveness—create their consequences.
If you’ve noticed karma showing up swiftly after you forgive someone, it’s not because you triggered it. It’s because the universe was already working behind the scenes. Your forgiveness simply removes you from the karmic loop, allowing you to observe without carrying the emotional weight.
Detaching From the Outcome
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that forgiveness requires detachment. You have to release the need to monitor what happens next. Forgiveness isn’t about making things “even” or seeing someone get their due. It’s about clearing your spirit and trusting the universe to handle the rest.
When fear creeps in, try this mantra:
“I forgive and release. The outcome belongs to the universe.”
Focus on the peace forgiveness brings you, not the external consequences that follow.
Reframing Karma as Education
Instead of viewing karma as punishment or vengeance, think of it as education. The universe doesn’t operate out of malice—it seeks balance and growth. What may look like vengeance is really a lesson for the other person, one they need for their spiritual journey.
And here’s the kicker: their lesson isn’t your responsibility. Even if it happens quickly after you forgive them, their karma is not tied to your actions. It’s a reflection of theirs.
Reframe your thoughts:
- Instead of: “My forgiveness caused this.”
- Say: “They are experiencing the effects of their choices. My forgiveness is unrelated to their lesson.”
Releasing Fear Through Letting Go
Letting go isn’t just about forgiveness—it’s about surrender. It’s trusting that the universe knows what it’s doing. When you let go, you’re releasing the need to control outcomes, analyze timing, or attach meaning to what happens next.
Here’s a simple ritual to help release fear:
- Write down your fear (e.g., “I’m afraid forgiveness feels like vengeance.”).
- Burn the paper (safely) while saying, “I release this fear. I trust the universe to handle what’s beyond me.”
- Take a deep breath and feel the weight lift from your spirit.
Why Timing Isn’t Your Responsibility
When karma shows up quickly, it can feel personal. But the timing isn’t about you. People’s actions often create built-up energy that must balance itself. Your forgiveness doesn’t speed it up—it just makes you more aware because you’ve shifted your focus from anger to observation.
Instead of fearing karma’s timing, ask yourself:
“What lesson is the universe showing me about release, balance, and peace?”
Sometimes, the lesson is simply to trust.
How to Ground Yourself in Forgiveness
When the fear of forgiveness being mistaken for vengeance arises, ground yourself in your healing. Remember, forgiveness is for you. It’s not about what happens to them—it’s about how it frees your energy.
Here are a few practices to help:
- Affirmations: Repeat, “Forgiveness is my freedom. What unfolds is not my responsibility.”
- Energy Cleansing: Use Reiki or meditation to clear lingering fear or attachment. Visualize cutting the cords that tie you to the situation.
- Self-Care: Focus on nurturing your mind, body, and spirit. Forgiveness creates space for you to pour love into yourself.
Trust the Flow of the Universe
Forgiveness is a journey, not a one-time act. It’s normal to feel uneasy when you see karma unfold, but know that you are not the architect of someone else’s lessons. You’re simply choosing peace for yourself. Trust that the universe is always working for balance, and your role is to heal, let go, and keep moving forward.
You deserve to live without fear or attachment. Forgiveness is your superpower—not a weapon. Step into your light and let the universe handle the rest.
What are your thoughts on forgiveness and karma? Have you experienced fear when letting go? Let’s talk about it in the comments—I’d love to hear your story and how you’re navigating your journey.
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