I ran into an acquaintance a couple of days ago who I hadn't seen in a year. As I was listening to him talk it occurred to me how much resentment he was holding toward is ex-wife. It's been over 3 years since their divorce and yet, he still remains bitter and angry over the way their marriage ended. Talking about it as though it happened yesterday.
In that moment, I realized why this person had such a difficult time being happy. Everything in his life since the divorce is still infused with the emotions and resentment he feels about the divorce.
During our conversation a quote came to mind that I decided to share with him. It stopped him dead in his tracks.
"Resentment is like taking poison and waiting for the other person to die."
Malachy McCourt
He stared at me in silence for what seemed like forever and I started to feel a bit uncomfortable wishing I had kept my mouth shut. Just when I was getting ready to apologize for stepping over a boundary, I saw a light go on for him and then he said, "Wow!" "That's exactly what I've done to myself and it's just not okay anymore."
He thanked me, we exchanged a few more words, and then went our separate ways. Hopefully, the next time I run into him, his new awareness will be used as the antidote for his poison.
If there's any resentment in your life, keep in mind the only person who's truly suffering is you. Chances are the other person has moved on and doing just fine. Whether you like it or not.
i'm sure Malachy McCourt said that... but i'd guess it's not his quote...
do a search on google for "resentment is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die."
it's attributed to carrie fisher....
Posted by: dez | November 05, 2009 at 07:07 PM