Q&A: On false accusations, inner work, emotional resilience, and peace

DEAR DIANA: I feel deep hatred for a pathetically weak—yet powerful—person who betrayed my confidence and slandered me at a time when I was reeling from the loss of my husband. The defamation hurt my relationships with friends as well as my opinion of them.  My trust in mankind is shattered and I harbor a deep desire to see this person punished. I can't help but look around at my friend group and feel they are all shallow, weak, and spineless. How can I let go of the desire to punish this person and how do I live with the loss of trust in my community? -- DISILLUSIONED AND RESENTFUL

DEAR DISILLUSIONED, I am so sorry you have been going through this. What a terrible and painful time to experience such a betrayal and loss of support. I understand why you are feeling angry and hurt.

As they say, "Resentment is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die." If resentment and other emotions are repressed, you will continue to feel disillusionment and bitterness.

To start the process of letting go, try to shift your focus from seeking revenge to taking care of yourself.

Here are some things you can do: