Why forgiveness?

Forgiveness Requires US to Give Up Suffering. Oscar Wilde said that suffering is a gift. It is also a need. Forgiveness requires that we let go of our need to be pitied, our need to be right, and out need to feel an intense connection with our tormentor through anger.

Forgiveness Means Taking Responsibility for Choices. Forgiveness is a choice that requires us to take responsibility for our actions and feelings. It requires us to be responsible to and for ourselves, even for our pain and humiliation. It means being responsible for the choices we make, including the choice of anger and the choice of Forgiveness.

Forgiveness is Powerful. Anger appears powerful, but leaves us feeling frustrated and powerless. Forgiveness, which appears weak, leaves us feeling stronger and less vulnerable to others.

Forgiveness is Easy. Most of us have not learned techniques to reach Forgiveness, but we know it begins with in the heart. All one needs to begin is to WANT to be released from the past. The other person need not be present, though it is better if they are. Forgiveness is seeing the other person and ourselves without judgment.