Forgiveness involves acceptance. Many times we get caught up in not wanting to forgive another person because we do not approve of the situation that has deeply wounded us. Although this is probably the most common human response to pain, it can hinder your healing.
In healing, we come to terms with what has severely hurt us, grieve what we lost, and then accept that we can never change the past or the people involved. Forgiveness calls us to accept all the pain that has entered our lives and to move forward in grace. It is amazing what forgiveness can do for you. How it can open doors and heal pain that you never thought possible. But I am here to tell from my own journey with forgiveness, that forgiveness is no easy mountain to climb. Releasing yourself from past hurts takes lots of work. But there are some pretty redeeming stories that will come out of that work if you are willing.
This holiday season try giving yourself and others the gift of gratitude. Gratitude has a way of dispersing resentment.
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