Guilt and The Past

Guilt is associated with the past. For example, I think of something I did or did not do and - if it is something about which I regret - I feel guilt 'rushing' to my heart.

Generally, there are two parameters for that:

1) Each one's psyche. Some people are mor esensitive and emotional than others and depending the degree, some are more prone to guilt than others. Of course, there are a few who would not feel guilt about anything but that is not frequent.

2) They learned to feel guilt about almost anything. The same way they learned it, they can learn to change it. It will no be easy but there is a solution.

I would also incorporate a number three parameter, which I believe it is the most important. And, actually, today, we lack that because it is not only a parameter on the subject 'guilt' but also a virtue. Nowadays, few people possess that virtue, which would really make a difference in society. It is called responsibility.

So:

3) Responsibility.

But let us elaborate: When I do - or not do - something, normally, I should expect a result of some sort; either good or bad. Although, always, every cloud has a silver lining, unfortunately, we tend to focus on the negative ones (not to mention that good or bad is subjective and that is a good point of view to keep in mind).

Hence, naturally, what we perceive as a negative outcome we refuse to accept it and it is then when guilt kicks in. But if I have taught or prepared myself that my decision - whatever decision - encompasses the possibility of a negative outcome, as well as a positive one, then it comes much easier. But if I don't accept the above fact, then it is normal that I will feel guilt.