Years ago, I made an unkind comment about a shirt-tail relative’s child in front of my children who were all young adults at the time. Even while I was saying the words, I was thinking how wrong I was. But I finished the thoughtless remark, got a lot of shocked laughter from my children. They voiced disbelief and amused surprise that I would be the one making an unkind observation, especially about a child!
That was years ago. Long ago, I told all of my kids that I regretted my remarks. Because of divorce, I haven’t seen the child in many years but my children recently saw her and reported that she had grown into an exceptionally attractive woman.
A couple of evenings ago at a party, a comment from a guest brought back my memory and I heard myself relating my story. I just blurted it right out – a short version. I realized that it was time to finally forgive myself.
I’m so grateful that the child was protected from hearing. That makes self-forgiveness somewhat easier. It was an indelible lesson for me – and I think, my children.
No one but my children heard my comment -and they clearly know it is one that I wish I had never uttered. I’ve sometimes felt regret that they still remember. But then….no, I choose to believe it was a lesson for all of us.
I’m so grateful that none of my children are critical of others. In fact, I think that they’re exceptionally accepting of, and kind to others.
A lesson learned. And so very grateful it was without harm to that little person.