Free
Forgiving when it is hard
Forgiveness is a process led by grace, not a feeling on demand.
Forgiveness frees the disciple; it does not pretend injustice did not happen. Trust and reconciliation are separate and may take time.
Will and feeling
You can choose to will the other’s good before emotions catch up. Pray for the person—not superficially, but consistently.
Boundaries
Forgiveness is not enabling abuse. Justice and safety can coexist with interior release of vengeance.
The sacrament
Confession untangles resentment that becomes spiritual poison. A director or counselor can help with deep wounds.
THIS WEEK
Try this week
- Write a short prayer for one person you resent; pray it three days.
- If safe, consider one neutral boundary instead of cold silence.
- Bring recurring bitterness to confession or spiritual direction.