Today, I’m reflecting on Hebrews 12:12-15: "Therefore, strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed. Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord; looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled."

This passage challenges us to examine the “roots” growing in our lives. A root of bitterness can spring up quietly but cause profound damage, both to ourselves and those around us. It can disrupt relationships, hinder our potential, and cloud our ability to move forward.

Bitterness often begins when we feel wronged, and perhaps we were. But if left unchecked, it festers, taking up space in our minds and hearts that could be used for creativity, peace, and growth.

Last year, I reflected on my nearly 30-year career and prayed over specific moments where bitterness may have taken root. These were instances that didn’t just feel wrong, they were wrong. I recalled moments at the start of my career where environments or interactions planted seeds of bitterness. While these seeds didn’t fully hold me back, the fruit they bore wasn’t good. So, I prayed for healing. I prayed for forgiveness, not for others’ sake, but for my own freedom.

Forgiveness isn’t always instantaneous; it’s often a process of prayer, reflection, and intentional release. But the rewards, freedom, peace, and clarity, are worth the effort.

Bitterness can arise even in subtle moments, like comments or actions that catch us off guard. Let me share a personal example. When I first joined the bank, a key leader told me, “Any idiot can lead a bank.” In the moment, I didn’t know how to process the comment. Was it a microaggression? A subtle jab? Or something else? Rather than reacting, I filed it away. I refused to let it plant bitterness in my heart. Instead, I used it as fuel—not to prove that person wrong, but to focus on being better.

Did you catch that?

Bitterness could have zapped my energy and distracted me. But instead, I reframed it as a learning moment and a motivator.

Here’s the takeaway: You have a choice. You can let life’s injustices and unkindnesses hold you hostage, or you can let them refine you. When we forgive, when we let go, we allow God to work in our lives. We open the door for healing, peace, and ultimately, optimization in our personal and professional lives.

This week, consider reflecting on one experience that may have planted a seed of bitterness. What did it teach you? How might it shape your growth? Transform it into a moment of learning and resilience.

As you reflect, also take a moment to be grateful for the lessons life has taught you—both through joy and challenge. Gratitude can be the first step toward healing and transformation.