Forgiveness

Of all the wonderful things I have been blessed in life, today I am most thankful for the ability to forgive. I had not realized it was a gift, being able to let go of a lot of things that I consider trivial. Even if I am angry or hurt, appeasement comes easily. A genuine sorry, a nice gesture, or if you can simply make me laugh with a silly joke, then all is forgiven.

I didn’t understand how or why it was difficult for others to do the same. I took for granted the peace that came with such a blessing, the freedom to live my life without the burden of someone else’s actions that I could not control.

Forgiveness is a choice. A difficult one for many. Perhaps it’s also because I’ve been blessed with a life surrounded by good people, that I could not hold a grudge against them even if they do something wrong. Perhaps it’s simply understanding that I myself have done so many things wrong, hurt others without meaning to.

There’s a reason for everything, but sometimes it’s so hard to make it clear to someone else. The person who cut you off on the highway may be rude, or he may be on the way to the hospital to see a loved one. The customer service representative whose accent you are making fun of may have written the most beautiful prose in her own language. Instead of getting angry at the stranger, think of a story make up a most wonderful excuse for them. Trust me, it would only make you feel better.

And if someone you love hurts you, try your best to understand why. There are things that can’t be forgiven, but you may be surprised at how easily people are willing to forgive those they love. Then we grow together, our bond strengthened by the understanding we’ve gained through hurting and forgiving, knowing that we are better people today because of all the mistakes of our yesterdays.

You may think that some things are beyond forgiveness. Some people don’t deserve to be forgiven. Who are you to be the judge of that? Let he who has not sinned cast the first stone, the Bible says. So forgive others, and take solace in that someday you will be offered the same forgiveness.