Guilt often comes from expectations

Guilt is a feeling of culpability of being responsible or blameworthy for harm or error.

Like fear, guilt can be healthy or unhealthy. We can be overly sensitive to other people’s expectations and feel guilty when we disappoint them; we can set unreasonable expectations on our self and feel guilty when we fall short; we can have misconceptions about God and feel unwarranted guilt through our misunderstanding.  Unhealthy guilt can cause deep agony; we can experience deep, soul-disturbing feelings and have done absolutely nothing wrong.

If we have actually done something wrong, even healthy guilt can exert unnecessary harm. We cannot allow it to mire us in despair and self-loathing nor to extend beyond an appropriate time. We need to right the wrong, make restitution, apologize or whatever; then we let this experience mold us into a better person, a move loving child of God. Our mistakes can bring the pain that makes us move forward; our errors may initiate wisdom, patience, and tolerance.

Prayer: My loving spiritual parent, I claim my birthright as your child. I come to you in this time of inner turmoil and ask that you direct my thoughts. If I have strayed from the path of your choosing and committed error, guide me in making right all things; grant me courage, wisdom, and sincerity as I proceed. If I am overly sensitive to expectations, replace my misguided reactions with true understanding; pervade my mind with your love; restore my soul with your peace.

Take three relaxing breaths; ask your inner spirit to guide your meditation; reflect on the content, pausing for a few minutes in silence.