Forgiveness Begins When the Heart Breaks Open

Jul 6, 2025

This episode delves deep into the complexities of true forgiveness, highlighting that it’s more about inner peace than simply moving on. Through heartfelt personal stories of betrayal and heartbreak, listeners learn the importance of grieving not just the person, but the life once imagined. The host discusses how to navigate emotional turmoil and the liberating practices that can aid in letting go of anger. It’s a journey toward reclaiming peace and fostering self-awareness, offering tools for anyone stuck in a cycle of hurt.

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ANECDOTE

Forgiveness Through Unexpected Text

Steven Webb shares his experience of being cheated on and the complex emotions involved.
He finally realized he had forgiven after receiving a surprising apology text years later.

INSIGHT

Grieving Imagined Life More

Forgiveness is not about forgetting but releasing the control the past has over you.
We often grieve the lost imagined life more than the person who caused the hurt.

ADVICE

Avoid Asking Hurtful Questions

Avoid asking direct questions about betrayal as answers are often unhelpful or dishonest.
It helps to let go of the curiosity to prevent ongoing emotional pain.

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🎙 Episode Title: Forgiveness Begins When the Heart Breaks Open

Forgiveness Meditation: Forgiveness for Your Freedom

🧘 Host: Steven Webb | Stillness in the Storms

🎧 Episode Summary:

In this honest and raw episode, I talk about my own journey through heartbreak, betrayal and real forgiveness. Not the kind where you say the right words to move on. The kind that comes slowly. Quietly. The kind that has nothing to do with the other person.

I share the story of being cheated on. The numbness. The anger. The questions I never asked. And the moment, years later, when a single text made me realise I had already forgiven her.

This is not about forgetting. It is not about being okay with what happened. It is about breaking the grip that the past has on your heart. It is about grieving the life you thought you were going to live. It is about reclaiming your peace.

If someone has hurt you or left you, or if you are stuck in a story that replays over and over, this episode is for you.

🛠 In This Episode:

Why "forgive and forget" is a myth
How I navigated betrayal while living with paralysis
The day I realised I had truly forgiven
Why we grieve the imagined life more than the person
How to let go when there are no answers
A simple practice to begin your own path to forgiveness

🧘 Forgiveness Practice and Affirmations:

Find a quiet space. Sit comfortably. Bring to mind the person or situation that caused the pain. Let it sit without story. Just feel what is there. Then say inwardly:

I remember the harm that was done.
I may not be ready to forgive, but I am willing to try.
May I find peace in my heart.
May I be free from the pain that caused you to hurt me.
I release myself from the burden of this hurt.

You do not have to rush. You do not have to think about it every day. Just let the practice do its work. And when the mind brings it up again, simply say, I forgave them. Let it pass. And over time, the weight softens.

💬 Listener Support:

If this episode speaks to you, share it with someone who needs it. And if you can, help keep the podcast going by visiting stevenwebb.uk