(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)

 

This time of year can be a good time to think about forgiving people for what they have done (or what you think they have done) to you. In forgiving, you leave it here in this year. You need not carry it on your journey through next year.

“What’s gone and what’s past help, should be past grief.” – William Shakespeare

“Forgive and forget.” – Anonymous

“Let bygones be bygones.” – Anonymous

To forgive is easier if you separate it from condoning. While the strictest use of the word “condone” is very similar to “forgive”, in common usage there is a difference. Implied in condoning is to still see the issue, perhaps even to feel judgmental about it. When you condone it, it still exists for you. You still have energy around it.

To forgive is to let it go completely.

 

Copyright 2000 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.