Forgiveness: a conscious, deliberate decision to release feelings of resentment or vengeance toward a person or group who has harmed you, regardless of whether they actually deserve your forgiveness

 

Why would I even want to forgive?

Forgiveness can be a profound step toward a deeper level of healing for survivors. It can be a step that opens the door to reconciliation. But even in the absence of apology or reconciliation, forgiveness can benefit survivors. It is worth it to at least explore what it is and keep it in mind. Those who are not ready for it right away might decide to take steps toward forgiveness later in life. Still, forgiveness is not the only path forward, and it is not to be undertaken lightly.

 

Can I forgive if the person never apologized or even admitted it happened?

The road to forgiveness is difficult without an apology, but it is not impossible. Forgiveness is a voluntary act on the part of the one who was harmed. It does not depend on the actions of the offender. However, moving on to trust and reconciliation would depend on admission of responsibility and a sincere attempt to make amends.

 

If a person has apologized to me, or asked forgiveness, am I required to forgive them?

No. If a person has sincerely apologized, they may be disappointed not to receive your forgiveness. But if they expect it or condemn you for not offering it, they are being manipulative, not remorseful.

 

How can I forgive if I can’t forget?

Forgiving does not mean you need to forget, or that you should even try to forget. It also does not mean you need to continue a relationship with the offender.

 

Can I forgive one of my children for the harm they did to the other child?

Only the one who was harmed has the right and ability and choice to forgive that harm. You can forgive the secondary harm that was done to you as a parent. But be very clear that you are only forgiving the harm to yourself.

 

Can God forgive someone for what they’ve done to me if I don’t forgive them? If God offers forgiveness, do I have to forgive?

Most traditions recognize that forgiveness from God is separate from forgiveness from the one who was hurt. According to many ancient religions, sins against the order of the universe are offenses against the Creator as well as the persons who were harmed, and are subject to universal consequences. Sometimes forgiveness from God is called "absolution," to distinguish it from human-to-human forgiveness.Absolution stands separate from forgiveness. God’s forgiveness does not replace or take away any person’s choice to forgive or not to forgive.

 

What if it’s too late--can I forgive someone who has died?

Yes, you can still forgive by changing the state of your heart toward that person’s memory, by letting go of the resentment that often does continue beyond death. Many belief systems hint at the possibility of forgiveness and reconciliation beyond death.

 

Do I have a moral obligation to forgive?

Most world religions and many ancient texts encourage and place a high value on forgiveness, but true forgiveness is always voluntary. Dr. Robert Enright, a prominent forgiveness researcher and practitioner, teaches that we are all morally obligated to refrain from injuring others in vengeance, but we are not required to forgive.