Forgiveness: What Does It Mean?

Who hasn't been hurt by the actions or words of others? Perhaps a parent constantly criticized you growing up, your senior at the workplace might have bullied you or you have differences with your partner, or maybe you've had a traumatic experience, such as being physically or emotionally abused by someone close to you. These wounds can leave you with lasting feelings of anger and bitterness — even vengeance.

- Abhrekha Jain Sahlot

But if you don't practice forgiveness, you might be the one who pays most dearly. By embracing forgiveness, you can also embrace peace, hope, gratitude, and joy. Consider how forgiveness can lead you down the path of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

What is forgiveness?

Forgiveness means different things to different people. Generally, however, it involves a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenue regardless of whether they deserve your forgiveness or not.

Forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting or excusing the harm done to you or making up with the person who caused the harm. Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps you go on with life. What are the benefits of forgiving someone?

Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for improved health and peace of mind. Forgiveness can lead to healthier relationships, Improved mental health, Less anxiety, stress, and hostility, Improved heart health, Improved self-esteem, etc.

What happens if you can't forgive someone?

Forgiveness can be challenging, especially if the person who's hurt you doesn't admit wrong. If you find yourself stuck, Practice empathy. Try seeing the situation from the other person's point of view.

Ask yourself why he or she would behave in such a way. Perhaps you would have reacted similarly if you faced the same situation. Reflect on times you've hurt others and on those who've forgiven you. Be aware that forgiveness is a process, and even small hurts may need to be revisited and forgiven repeatedly.

What if the person I'm forgiving doesn't change?