Short messages on Relationships issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
Truly accepting an apology means that you have thought it through, acknowledge that your friend made a mistake, and embrace the fact that your friend is sorry.
Forgiveness sets you free from resentment’s confines; it breaks down the walls that anger builds and negativity reinforces. When we forgive, we stop letting ours pasts dictate our presents. We acknowledge we want the very best for ourselves; accepting that our past makes us the person we are today, and embracing that.
It takes huge strength and courage to express and communicate our pain to the people who hurt us. In doing so, we expose our vulnerable side – the very part that we want to protect and keep safe. But when we communicate painful emotions, we take a step outside of our comfort zone and into a wonderful learning and growth opportunity.
Resentment is a state of mind that creates suffering. It seems to be caused by what happened, but it’s not – it is caused by how you relate to what happened.
Don’t punish your relationship with a friend just because they have something that you want. Learn to accept it, and move yourself forward.
You can prepare when you are thinking of moving in together: make it your own shared place, respect each other’s space, share the responsibilities and make sure you can discuss anything!
Moving in together is a big commitment and you need to both be sure you are ready and mature enough to share all aspects of your daily life together.
Contact your old friends or visit relatives in your home town to spend quality time with others. Being in the company of people you grew up with has a satisfying and positive effect when it comes to coping with loneliness.
Why not do some volunteering at Christmas? Many places appreciate extra help at this time of year, you’ll meet new people and it may even lead to permanent work.
Being lonely at Christmas is not a nice feeling. Why not invite some friends round or go out? It’s a good feeling to be surrounded by your friends. They become your second family.