The real New Year should be on March 20-22
The real New Year should be on March 20-22. That is the Spring Equinox, a time of renewal, rebirth, and balance in nature. However, since the collective is presently engaged in New Year’s celebrations, we can still harness this powerful energy to manifest positive change and personal growth.
As the year comes to a close, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the blessings we have received. Looking back, we often realize that many of the challenges we faced were actually blessings in disguise, leading us toward growth, wisdom, and resilience. When conducting this reflection, it is essential to focus on gratitude rather than dwelling on past difficulties, problems, or grievances
Think of this as a spiritual inventory, much like how businesses take stock of their assets. Companies do this not only to assess what they have but also to identify ways to improve their operations and maximize success. Similarly, taking stock of our spiritual journey allows us to refine our mindset and intentions for the year ahead
To make this inventory meaningful, consider these guiding questions:
These questions can help us gauge our spiritual progress and determine the areas where we need to grow. Forgiveness is a vital element of this process.
Forgiveness is Key, Even before Gratitude.
Forgiveness is one of the most transformative spiritual practices, a bridge between human imperfection and divine grace. Across major world religions and modern self-development philosophies, forgiveness is seen as a powerful act of liberation—one that not only benefits the recipient but also the forgiver.
Jesus placed immense emphasis on forgiveness, linking it directly to divine mercy. In the Lord’s Prayer, he states: “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14-15) This teaching underscores a universal spiritual law—our ability to receive grace and inner peace is directly tied to our willingness to release resentment. By forgiving, we open ourselves to the healing power of God’s love.
In Islam, forgiveness is an essential attribute of God, and believers are encouraged to embody it in their daily lives. The Qur’an repeatedly emphasizes that those who forgive are closer to divine mercy. One of the most profound verses states: “Let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Qur’an 24:22) Islam encourages forgiveness in multiple ways. Forgiveness earns divine reward, as the Qur’an promises that those who forgive others will receive immense rewards from Allah. (42:40-43) It also teaches restraint over retaliation, stating that while justice is permitted, choosing forgiveness is considered nobler. (41:34) The Prophet Muhammad exemplified this virtue by forgiving even those who harmed him, including those who persecuted him in Mecca, demonstrating the highest level of moral character. The act of forgiving is not just about releasing anger; it is about embodying divine qualities and seeking inner peace.
In Hinduism, forgiveness (Kshama) is considered a divine quality essential for spiritual growth. The Mahabharata states: “Forgiveness is virtue; forgiveness is sacrifice; forgiveness is the Vedas; forgiveness is the Shruti. He that knows this is capable of forgiving everything.” This teaching highlights the idea that forgiveness is not just an ethical choice but a sacred act that aligns one with cosmic harmony. By letting go of grievances, one moves closer to enlightenment.
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, taught that forgiveness is a reflection of divine presence within us. The Guru Granth Sahib proclaims: “Where there is forgiveness, there is God Himself.” (Ang 1372) Forgiveness in Sikhism is seen as a means of dissolving ego, fostering unity, and maintaining harmony within the community. It is a path to self-purification and devotion to God.
Modern psychology and self-improvement philosophies also recognize the power of forgiveness. Spiritual teacher Marianne Williamson wrote: “The practice of forgiveness is our most important contribution to the healing of the world.” Similarly, self-help expert Louise Hay taught that forgiveness is an act of self-love: “Forgiveness is for yourself because it frees you. It lets you out of that prison you put yourself in.” The Human Potential Movement sees forgiveness as a key to emotional freedom. Holding onto resentment is like carrying a heavy burden, while forgiveness is an act of releasing oneself from emotional chains.
Regardless of faith or philosophy, forgiveness is a universal virtue that transforms lives. It does not mean condoning harm, but rather choosing peace over pain, love over resentment. Whether seen as a divine command, a sacred virtue, or a tool for personal growth, forgiveness is one of the most powerful forces in human life. Are there any wounds you need to release today? Choosing to forgive may be the key to unlocking your own peace and spiritual growth.
Beyond personal reflection, this transition period is an excellent time for setting new intentions. Instead of making traditional New Year’s resolutions that often fade away within weeks, consider setting intentions rooted in gratitude, self-awareness, and personal evolution. Visualize the life you wish to create and align your actions with that vision.
Use this period to nurture habits that bring you joy, peace, and fulfillment. Meditate on your goals, affirm your desires with conviction, and practice self-care to sustain your energy. Whether you choose to focus on health, financial abundance, spiritual growth, or stronger relationships, align your aspirations with your higher self.
As we step into the new cycle, remember that transformation is a continuous journey. The small changes and mindful choices you make today will shape the blessings you count a year from now. By embracing gratitude, forgiveness, and conscious manifestation, you are setting yourself up for a year filled with divine love, peace, prosperity, and lots of gay-joy.
May you be blessed with a New Year that brings you closer to your truest self, filled with infinite possibilities and guided by light and wisdom. Happy New Year!
