Forgiveness Is Like Ranch Dressing—Whatever You Put It On, It Makes Things Better

Today, I’m going to talk about…

Forgiveness Is Like Ranch Dressing—Whatever You Put It On, It Makes Things Better

A few days ago, one of my mentors, Mike Foster, shared a fun and thought-provoking quote: “Forgiveness is like ranch dressing—whatever you put it on, it makes things better.”  This playful metaphor captures a profound truth: forgiveness improves every situation it touches.

Just as ranch dressing complements almost any food, forgiveness represents a universally beneficial mindset. Regardless of the circumstances—whether forgiving a friend, family member, coworker, or even yourself—choosing to forgive lightens the emotional load and leads to greater peace and freedom.

This saying is a modern take on the idea that forgiveness is always a good choice, just as ranch dressing is widely believed to pair well with almost anything.

For a more traditional take on forgiveness, there’s this beautiful quote from Mark Twain:
“Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.”

Both capture the same core truth—forgiveness isn’t just about the other person; it’s about your peace.

Here’s Why It Matters:

Holding onto resentment is like carrying a backpack full of bricks—it weighs you down without serving any real purpose. Forgiveness, on the other hand, sets you free.

When you choose to forgive:

• You let go of emotional baggage that drains your energy.
• You free yourself from repeating the pain of the past.
• You create space for inner peace, clarity, and better relationships.

Like ranch dressing enhances whatever it’s added to, forgiveness makes life lighter, smoother, and more fulfilling.

Here’s Where Most People Go Wrong:

• They think forgiving means excusing the behavior.
• They wait for an apology before moving on.
• They believe forgiveness is a one-time decision when in reality, it’s often a process.

The truth? Forgiveness isn’t about the other person—it’s about YOU.

You don’t need an apology. You don’t need permission. You just need to decide that your peace is more important than holding onto past hurt.

If You Don’t Fix This, You Risk:

• Holding onto negative emotions that keep you stuck.
• Letting old wounds dictate your future and drain your joy.
• Struggling in relationships because unresolved resentment builds walls instead of bridges.

Unforgiveness doesn’t punish the other person—it punishes you. Forgiveness, on the other hand, sets you free.

Here’s What You Should Do Instead…

Make forgiveness a daily habit. It’s not just for significant betrayals—it’s a mindset that can transform everyday interactions.

Here are 5 ways to apply forgiveness in your life starting today:

5 Ways to Make Forgiveness a Daily Practice

Way #1: Change Your Perspective on Forgiveness

Forgiveness doesn’t mean you condone what happened—it means you refuse to let it define you. Instead of saying, “They don’t deserve my forgiveness,” shift to “I deserve peace.”

Way #2: Let Go of the Need for an Apology

If you’re waiting for an apology before forgiving, you give the other person control over your emotions.

Forgive—even if the other person never acknowledges the hurt.

Way #3: Start with Self-Forgiveness

We’re often our own worst critics. Think about something you’re holding against yourself. Would you be as harsh to a friend in the same situation? Offer yourself the same grace.

Way #4: Process and Release, Don’t Repress

Forgiveness doesn’t mean pretending it never happened. Acknowledge it, process it, and then let it go.
Journaling, meditating, or speaking to someone who can help you work through your resentment can be powerful tools for releasing it.

Way #5: Apply It to Small Things Daily

Forgiveness isn’t just for life-altering betrayals—it’s for everyday annoyances, too.

• Forgive the driver who cut you off.
• Forgive the coworker who made a passive-aggressive remark.
• Forgive yourself for not being perfect today.

The more you practice forgiveness in small ways, the easier it becomes in more significant situations.

Here’s an Easy Step You Can Take Today to Get Started:

Think of one thing you’ve been holding onto—whether it’s a situation, a person, or even yourself. Decide to forgive today.

Write it down, say it out loud, or take a deep breath and release it.

Because forgiveness—just like ranch dressing—makes everything better.

P.S. Schedule a call today if you’re ready to release the past and create a more peaceful, resilient mindset. Let’s work together to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.