The Green Light of Forgiveness

Summary

Elle Beau's essay "The Green Light of Forgiveness" is a reflective piece on personal growth and self-forgiveness, inspired by the journey of overcoming societal expectations and listening to one's inner voice.

Abstract

In "The Green Light of Forgiveness," Elle Beau shares her personal journey of self-discovery and forgiveness. She acknowledges the societal pressures that led her to accept things she didn't need to and the realization that she had the power to choose differently. Beau emphasizes the importance of listening to her own voice and the transformative process that allowed her to embrace a new, stronger version of herself. She extends forgiveness to others who have caused her pain, recognizing their actions as a reflection of their own struggles. The essay is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of self-forgiveness in personal growth.

Opinions

The author believes that self-forgiveness is crucial for personal growth and healing.
She criticizes societal norms for teaching her to accept undue burdens and to remain silent.
Beau expresses that listening to one's inner voice is key to discovering personal strength and autonomy.
She acknowledges that others may also need forgiveness, as their harmful actions often stem from their own pain.
The essay suggests that going through hardships can lead to becoming a better, stronger person.
The author draws inspiration from Taylor Swift's song "Happiness," which resonates with the theme of transformation and forgiveness.

You haven’t met the new me yet

I finally learned to forgive myself For all the things I didn’t know I didn’t need to accept

It wasn’t my fault that the world taught me badly and wrong Insisting that I quietly endure, and just go along

It took me some time to figure out I had other choices And I began to listen to different voices — mostly my own

When at last I began to hear her more clearly That was the time I could hold her more dearly

You haven’t met the new me yet

I had to forgive myself for not knowing better She was so sweet, wouldn’t want to upset her

Yet she came through the fight all battle bruised and scarred Better, stronger, her heart still unmarred

I forgive them too, for being such fools Wreaking havoc from pain, and behaving like tools

But mostly the one who needed forgiveness was me For not seeing sooner how to go find the free

You haven’t met the new me yet.

© Copyright Elle Beau 2021 Elle Beau writes on Medium about sex, life, relationships, society, anthropology, spirituality, and love. If this story is appearing anywhere other than Medium.com, it appears without my consent and has been stolen.

Loosely inspired by Taylor Swift’s song Happiness

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