Tuesday; March 7

Typically, when we think about forgiveness, we see it as a religious principle. The Bible is very pointed about the need for people to not only seek the forgiveness of God, but also to express forgiveness to their fellow man. Forgiveness is a key to Christianity!

While the presence of forgiveness is vital in Christianity, it is also an important part of basic human civility. Without forgiveness there can be no mutual respect. Without forgiveness emotions will escalate to the point of retaliation and revenge. Forgiveness is the basic principle in righting a relationship that needs to be restored – whether that is between neighbors, states or political parties. We have been taught that, to be successful, we have to drive hard and make sure we get our way – because we can’t give in, or others will roll over us. We have convinced ourselves that we can’t show weakness. Yet, when we are willing to forgive each other, we have the luxury of trying to build things together, in unity. Forgiveness also allows us to try to do things that are new (and maybe even things that can potentially be better or innovative) without a fear of failure because we will have the opportunity to do better the next time.

Let’s make sure we elevate forgiveness to where it needs to be in our religion, but not neglect its value in every aspect of life. By forgiving one another, we can make this a special time and place in which to live.

Think About It!

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