THE ART OF FORGIVENESS
The answer is to forgive again.
We can choose a lifestyle of forgiveness that says, “I refuse to dwell on this because I have chosen to forgive.” It is true that forgiveness will stunt the growth of the unforgiveness seed. It can uproot bitterness and open the door to deeper relationships with others. We can prune the leaves of anger that grow and are sustained when fed with resentment by choosing to forgive.
Forgiveness is a lost art, one that can provide wonderful results when exercised. According to an article written about forgiveness and health by doctors at Johns Hopkins Medicine, “Studies have found that the act of forgive- ness can reap huge rewards for your health, lowering the risk of heart attack; improving cholesterol levels and sleep; and reducing pain, blood pressure, and levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. And research points to an increase in the forgiveness-health connection as you age.”4
We can face obstacles and relational challenges with confidence when we live a life of forgiveness. Just remember that unforgiveness yields a bitter perspec- tive ; causes us to distrust others; leads to insecurity ; provides more opportunities to live and act on our anger ; sews threads of resentment in our relationships. But forgiveness yields a sweeter perspective, provides more opportunities to experi- ence happiness , and sews threads of joy in our relationships.
Let’s learn these two phrases and practice them with each other.
Please forgive me.
I forgive you.