826 - Have you ever been ridiculed?

As kids, we all remember a time when we may have been ridiculed at school or by friends.

When I was nine years old, I had a bad kidney infection that caused me to gain weight.

By today's standards, I was not fat, yet kids called me "gorilla" and made fun of me.

Yes, of course, it hurt. But I picked myself up and moved on.

I remember the experience but knew that I had gotten over it.

Fast forward to last week when I returned to that time, during a healing exercise, and met my former self.

I saw not only my pain but the pain of those who made fun of me.

I immediately recognized my older brother, who is a raging alcoholic today. He was the main one who chastised me.

He was also the one in the most pain.

As I forgave him in my mind, I saw deep relief in his young face. I saw his guilt melt away as he apologized and accepted my forgiveness.

Mentally, we hugged each other.

Since that moment, I have experienced breakthroughs I never imagined possible. I never thought they were necessary.

When you recognize the pain in those who hurt you, it is easier to forgive and let go.

This freed me up to experience even more positivity in my life and help my brother in more ways than I thought possible despite his affliction.

Have you ever had a noticeably positive life-changing experience?