Learn to Let Go

My mother sent me this amazing letter written over 100 years ago, speaking to the value of letting go.  It has helped me deal with some personal challenges, and I hope you find it helpful as well.

Learn To Let Go

If you want to be healthy, morally, mentally and physically, just let go.

Let go of the little bothers of everyday life, the irritations and the petty vexations that cross your path daily.  Don't take them up and nurse them, and brood over them.  They are not worthwhile.  Let them go.

That little hurt you got from a friend, perhaps it wasn't intended, perhaps it was, but never mind, let it go.  Refuse to think about it.

Let go of that hatred you have for another, the jealously, the envy, the malice, let go all such thoughts.  Sweep them out of your mind, and you will be surprised what a clearing up and rejuvenating effect it will have upon you, both physically and mentally.  Let them all go; you house them at deadly risk.

But the troubles, the bitter disappointments, the deep wrongs and the heart-breaking sorrows, tragedies of life, what about them?  Why, just let them go, too.  Drop them, softly maybe, but surely.  Put away all regret and bitterness, and let sorrow be only a softening influence.  Yes, let them go, too, and make the most of the future.

Then that little pet ailment that you have been hanging onto and talking about, let it go.  It will be a good riddance.  You have treated it royally, but abandon it; let it go.  Talk about health, instead, and health will come.  Quit nursing that pet ailment, and let it go.

It is not so hard after once you get used to the habit of it - letting go of these things.  You will find it such as easy way to get rid of the things that may mar and embitter life that you will enjoy letting them go.  You will find the world such a beautiful place.  You will find it beautiful because you will be free to enjoy it - free in mind and body.

Learn to let go.  As you value health of body and peace of mind, let go - just simply let go.

Christmas Greeting
Loretto, Las Cruces, NM
December 25th, 1907