How to Use Ho’oponopono Meditation to Forgive the Jerks in Your Life

Today, I feel like dancing and singing at the top of my lungs! 

Why? A terrible situation I’ve been dealing with for months has finally been resolved, and some truly hateful people are out of my life for good.

But I wouldn’t be celebrating today without using a technique that’s helped me feel calm and in control even when part of my life is exploding into pieces. It’s called ho’oponopono, and I’ve used it for years whenever things feel hopeless and the world is out to get me.

Ho’oponopono is a traditional Hawaiian practice of reconciliation and forgiveness.

Basically, it’s the act of forgiving the people and situations that hurt you and releasing them from your mind so you can live a peaceful life. You might even use ho’oponopono to forgive yourself!

There are hundreds of free ho’oponopono meditations on YouTube, and they all involve chanting the same 4 phrases as you focus on the person you want to forgive:

• I’m sorry.
• Please forgive me.
• Thank you.
• I love you.

You may be thinking, “Why should I say ‘I’m sorry’ to this awful person? They did something wrong.” Saying sorry isn’t about taking the blame or absolving them of their bad actions.

In every situation, you have a responsibility, or a response ability. It’s not your fault, but you are responsible for how you respond. You might be sorry that this person chose to behave poorly or be sorry that they chose to end your friendship or professional relationship.

I instantly feel calmer and more hopeful every time I’ve done ho’oponopono meditations. Focusing on forgiveness and letting go has saved my sanity and prevented me from doing something I might regret . . . like sending a nasty email or punching the wall! 

What’s making your life difficult right now? Is there someone who’s hurting in their own life so they’re lashing out and hurting you? 

Try forgiving them today and letting the pain leave your body and mind so you can choose happiness and peace.