THE WAY OF HAPPINESS - Forgiveness

"DURING  MY CHILDHOOD, I HEARD A LOT OF INSULTS AND SCREAMING,"  said a woman named Patricia.  "I did not learn to forgive.  Even as an adult, I would dwell on an offense for days, losing sleep." Yes, a life filled with anger and resentment is neither a happy one or a healthy one.  Indeed, studies show that unforgiving people may . . .

* Let anger or bitterness sour relationships, leading to isolation and loneliness

* Become easily offended, anxious, or even severely depressed

* Become so focused on a wrong that they cannot enjoy life

* Feel that they are at odds with their spiritual values

* Experience increased stress and a higher risk of ill health, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and pain disorders, such as arthritis and headaches

WHAT IS FORGIVENESS?  Forgiveness means pardoning an offender and letting go of anger, resentment, and thoughts of revenge.  It does not mean condoning a wrong, minimizing it, or pretending that it did not happen.  Rather forgiveness is a well-thought-out personal choice that reflects a loving commitment to peace and to building or maintaining a good relationship with the other person. 

Forgiveness also reflects understanding.  A forgiving person understands that we all err, or sin, in word and deed.  (Romans 3:23)  Reflecting such insight, the Bible says:  "Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely even if anyone has a cause for complaint against another." -Colossians 3:13. 

It stands to reason, then, that forgiveness is an important facet of love, which is "a perfect bond of union." (Colossians 3:14)  Indeed, according to the May Clinic website, forgiveness leads to . . .

* Healthy relationships, including feelings of empathy, understanding, and compassion for the offender

* Improved mental and spiritual well-being

* Less anxiety, stress, and hostility

* Fewer symptoms of depression

Next time:  THE WAY OF HAPPINESS - Conclusion of Forgiveness

From the jw.org publications