Forgiveness

“Forgiveness is not about forgetting. 

It is about letting go of another person’s throat.

Forgiveness does not create a relationship. 

Unless people speak the truth about what they have done 

and change their mind and behavior, 

a relationship of trust is not possible. 

When we forgive someone 

we certainly release them from judgment, 

but without true change, 

no real relationship can be established.

Forgiveness in no way requires 

that we trust the one we forgive. 

But should they finally confess and repent, 

we will discover a miracle in our own heart 

that allows us to reach out 

and begin to build between us a bridge of reconciliation.

Forgiveness does not excuse anything.

We may have to declare our forgiveness 

a hundred times the first day 

and the second day, 

but the third day will be less 

and each day after, 

until one day we will realize 

that we have forgiven completely. 

And then one day 

we will pray for the person's wholeness.”  

~ Paul Young :)