How To Move On When You're Hurt Without An Apology

Sometimes you want to forgive, but resentments still linger. These steps will help you overcome the barriers to reconciliation.

1. Everybody has a good side. "True forgiveness is when you can say, "Thank you for that experience." - Oprah Winfrey. Focus on the positive qualities of the person who has offended you. See how in the past they may have added value to you. Stay in the energy of gratitude for what they have done for you and you'll eventually start to cherish them for real once again.

2. Accept your contribution. In all likelihood, you probably played some part in the conflict. Acknowledge your actions and figure out how to make positive changes.

3. Look at it from their point of view. When someone fails to apologize, it usually has more to do with them than with you. They may feel ashamed or vulnerable. When you think about their pain, you may feel like you have more in common.

4. Resist all-or-nothing thinking. Distinguish between the human being and their actions. An action may be wrong but that doesn't make the whole human being wrong. If someone criticizes you unfairly, list the things you still like about him / her.

5. Release the negative energy. Venting your feelings in a diary or an imaginary letter helps to sort things out. You can express yourself freely without worrying about widening the divide. Write the letter and burn it to release the energy from your body onto the paper and eventually into the other. Works like magic every single time!

6. Reach out. If someone close to you has trouble apologizing, you may need to make an extra effort. Let them see how you apologize and take responsibility for your actions so they can discover more options.

7. Feel free to define your boundaries. On the other hand, you may decide to limit contact if the relationship is dragging you down. You can still have affection and respect for someone but you may need to keep them at a distance at least temporarily.

8. Nurture good feelings. The more secure you feel, the easier it is to focus on helping others rather than judging them. You'll understand that your future depends on your choices rather than real or imagined insults.

Forgiveness allows you to let go of the past and free yourself from anger and resentment. It's a decision you can make on your own regardless of whether others apologize or show little remorse. And lastly, always remember -"The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong." - Mahatma Gandhi