Commit to be Fit: Pruning, growth and the power of forgiveness

Spring has arrived! The sun is shining, the days are growing longer and nature is awakening from its slumber. Fresh green grass peeks through the dull brown remnants of winter, and a renewed energy fills the air. This is the season of transformation — a time when nature reminds us that growth is not just about adding more, but also about letting go.

Before new life can flourish, the old must be cleared away. Gardeners know this well: dead grass is raked, brittle branches are pruned, and sometimes even fire is used to burn away what no longer serves the land. But this clearing isn’t destruction — it’s preparation.

And isn’t this true in the garden of our lives? Health experts agree that when we hold on to feelings that no longer serve us — such as resentment, anger or guilt — our physical and emotional health can suffer. Just like a garden that’s cluttered with last season’s debris, our bodies and minds need space, light and air to thrive.

Letting go to grow

When we think about being healthier in mind, body and soul, we often focus on doing more — exercising more, eating better, being more productive. But sometimes, the most transformative thing we can do is to release what is weighing us down.

What outdated habits, limiting beliefs or burdens do you want to clear away?

One of the most powerful acts of renewal is forgiveness — of others and of ourselves. Forgiveness is like a fresh spring breeze in the soul, clearing out resentment, anger and guilt. It’s not about justifying what was done or pretending past pain didn’t happen; rather, it’s about choosing freedom. When we forgive, we lighten our hearts and create space for something new — connection, peace and healing.

Discovering, not becoming

I will always remember a Lenten reflection by author and speaker Matthew Kelly. He beautifully explained the difference between becoming the best version of yourself and discovering it.

The distinction comes down to one simple word: become vs. discover — but it shifts everything.

To "become" implies striving, reaching for something just out of grasp. But to discover means uncovering what has already been there all along.

The best version of yourself is not something you need to force or fabricate. It’s already inside you, waiting to be nurtured, honored and brought into the light.

Listening for guidance

When I find myself at a crossroads, my mom always reminds me to get quiet and listen for the whispers within. She calls that “Christ within me,” and that same guidance is within you. You might call it a Higher Power, the universe or simply Love. Whether through prayer, meditation or stillness, there is a wisdom within you, waiting to be heard.

Your strength, beauty, talents and limitless potential have already been Divinely embedded within you all along.

What is calling you?

As spring unfolds, take a moment to ask yourself:

Spring is proof that transformation is possible. The light is here. The warmth has come.

Let go. Grow. And let the light in.

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Kylie Alger is a certified wellness coach and co-owner of the Well-Woman: Body, Mind & Spirit. Comments: kylie@thewellwoman.org.