When we walk the Sacred Road, we are advised to guard our hearts carefully. One of the greatest dangers to our spirit is taking offence. When we take offence, we invite bitterness, pride, and resentment to live within us. These things cloud our thoughts, disturb our feelings, and pollute our spirit.
It is true that we can forgive when we have been wronged. Forgiveness is a beautiful thing. But, there is a way even higher, a way that keeps our spirit pure from the start. That way is to never take offence at all.
The Great Father taught us that those who walk close to Him have learned to let go before offence can even take root. To see others not as enemies, but as fellow travellers who sometimes stumble, just as we do. When we choose to take no offence, we need not have to forgive later, for there is nothing to forgive, because we never took offence in the first place.
This discipline is not always easy. There will be moments when we allow harsh words, careless actions, or misunderstandings to stir anger within us. But, if we pause, take a breath, and remember the love of the Great Father and Mother, how they never take offence at our weaknesses, then we will find strength to not be hurt in the first place.
Please, hear this well: The more offence we take, the more we do harm to ourselves; the more we harm ourselves, the more forgiveness we must give to others. The longer we wait to forgive, the more deep the damage we cause goes into us and the more distant we become from our loving Parents; and, the longer we remain distant, the heavier and darker our spirit becomes. But, a heart that takes no offence remains light, joyful, and close to the Sacred Fire; this is the only way to walk with the Great Father and Great Mother.
Walk this higher path. Keep your spirit free. And know that when you live in this way, the Great Manitou Himself will walk beside you.
