Most of us need to admit that we love a good redemption story—there is a reason we root for the underdog in so many situations. Not one of us is perfect… we make mistakes, we withhold information, we say words meant to harm in anger, we out-and-out lie to serve our own purposes. And in the process we usually harm another person in some way. The best among us realize this, own up to the shortcomings and the damage we’ve done, and apologize.
Welcome to Brothers and Sisters, the weekly meetup for prayer* and community at Daily Kos. We put an asterisk on pray* to acknowledge that not everyone uses conventional religious language, but may want to share joys and concerns, or simply take solace in a meditative atmosphere. Anyone who comes in the spirit of mutual respect, warmth and healing is welcome.
If we are really, truly, sorry we make our apology (not a weasely “I’m sorry if you were offended.” But an “I’m sorry I said/did something that was hurtful.” We take ownership of our fault…
And I have found that to be quite liberating—I screwed up… I’m so sorry… how can I help fix things? Let’s make this right and move on.
Of course this is REALLY hard to do—we humans do not like to admit fault. There are those among us who would call it a sign of weakness to admit fault. I DO NOT believe that this is true. I think that the stronger thing to do is to accept responsibility for ALL of our actions- take credit for what is due… and the blame for what we owe.
There are hundreds of good quotes out there about forgiveness. Here is a small sampling:
The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong. ~ Gandhi
We achieve inner health only through forgiveness - the forgiveness not only of others but also of ourselves. ~ Rabbi Joshua Loth Liebman
Luke 6:36-37 New International Version (NIV)
36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
37 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish (i.e. don’t punish them). (The Quran: Chapter #7, Verse #199) –from Prayer Timing
Remption is when a person puts himself aside to feel deeply for another person. ~Tennessee Williams
I have learned that sometimes "sorry" is not enough. Sometimes you actually have to change. ~ Claire London
I'm mature enough to forgive you, BUT not dumb enough to trust you. ~ unknown
(TRUST…That will have to be its own diary someday!)
I am making a point to really think about when I have done something that has wronged another and then doing what I need to do in order to make the situation right again. It is after all, important in maintaining healthy relationships and community. I love being part of this community—thank you for allowing me to contribute and for sharing your contributions as well.
Peace,
~Dee