"Forget like a child any injury done by somebody immediately. Never keep it in the heart. It kindles hatred"

Forgiveness nurtures peace within us, and the teachings of Swami Sivananda emphasize the powerful habit of letting go of grudges instantly, just as a child does. Children are remarkable in that their emotions are immediate and honest: when they are wronged, they may respond in the moment, but not long after, they return to their usual cheerfulness, unconcerned with past slights. This effortless release of resentment allows them to move through life unburdened by accumulating bitterness.

Learning from this childlike approach, adults are encouraged to drop grievances quickly rather than allowing them to fester. Holding onto perceived injuries or insults traps the heart in a cycle of pain and revenge. When we dwell on how others have hurt us, replaying those moments in our minds, that pain transforms into animosity. Hatred is not present at the initial moment of hurt but grows as the mind continuously revisits and nurtures the wound. Such negative emotions cloud judgment, rob happiness, and silently erode our well-being.

Swami Sivananda’s wisdom is an invitation to cultivate a light heart, one that refuses to make injury or offense its resting place. There is profound strength in vulnerability and in the decision to release others from the prison of our resentment. By doing so, the heart remains free, untouched by the corroding effects of hatred. The world is filled with misunderstandings, mistakes, and imperfect interactions; inevitably, everyone experiences hurt. Yet, our response determines the quality of our inner life.

Letting go does not mean condoning wrong actions but recognizing our inherent power to choose peace over pain. Each day offers an opportunity to practice forgetting minor and major injuries alike, striving for the clear, unencumbered spirit of childhood. In this act of release, love and compassion, both for ourselves and others, are rekindled, breaking the cycle of anger and paving the way for lasting contentment.