“If you love someone, set them free. If they come back they’re yours; if they don’t they never were.”
Richard Bach
We all have people in our lives who bug us, bring us down, don’t understand us, are not a positive influence on us. What are we to do when a relationship becomes unhealthy for both individuals? The answer may be simply letting go of that relationship. Sounds easy enough, but for most of us, doing so is difficult and takes us out of our comfort zone.
When the situation becomes too much to handle, we find it tough to let go. Yet, in order to begin fresh, we have to relinquish the things that have a toxic effect on us. A form of tough love is required. Releasing that person is sometimes the only way. In fact, you may even be showing them a stronger love by doing so.
When you’ve tried to mend a relationship and nothing works – when you’re stuck in a mundane job that’s going nowhere – when you’ve tried to maintain a good attitude – when your friends betray you, you simply have to look at things differently. We have the ability to free ourselves and the other person. Through that letting go, we’re showing a certain amount of mercy. We’re making it easier for life to progress rather than regress.
There are things to consider though. You may lose someone you care about – you might regret it – you can feel a lot of guilt. Guilt in turn nags at us like a dripping faucet and it can’t be repaired easily, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be. Sometimes a period of absence allows you to discover new avenues or find a way to mend the old ones.
We all have people in our lives that drag us down or don’t allow us to flourish. Jesus told us to love our enemies and to do good to those who hate us. He also told us not to conform to the world’s standards.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Roman 12:2
Letting go isn’t easy, but sometimes it’s the only option.
atimetoshare.me 
A friend of mine had to let go of a family member….this person was threatening. We have to give them to God.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Like everything else, we have to surrender to God’s will.
LikeLike
You’ve got me thinking, Kathy, about those people who won’t let US go, the clingers and co-dependents. I’ve not been very good at honestly expressing why I can’t spend time with them anymore. Usually I make excuses for myself until they get the hint. There’s got to be a better way!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m feeling that way a lot lately, but for good reason. My plate is full, as is yours, when you run out of encouragement and inspiration. Letting go seems like the last resort, but God doesn’t want us to have to take on everyone’s burden. He’s already taken away our sin and he has everything under control. It’s not an easy task but he will be with us all the way.
LikeLike