Forgiveness is one of the hardest things we can do in life, especially when the hurt runs deep. We often resist forgiving because it feels like giving in or letting someone “off the hook” for their actions. But true forgiveness is none of these things. In fact, forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself—a powerful step toward peace and healing.
Why Forgiveness Is So Difficult
Our thoughts, emotions, and even our body chemistry can keep us tied to past wounds. Painful memories remain, and often, the anger or resentment surrounding them lingers, too. Letting go of these intense feelings may seem impossible. But when we learn what forgiveness is—and what it isn’t—it becomes easier to release that emotional weight.
What Forgiveness Is Not
Many people misunderstand forgiveness, which keeps them stuck in their pain. Here are a few misconceptions that may be holding you back:
Forgiveness Isn’t About the Other Person: Forgiving someone doesn’t absolve them of responsibility for what they did. It also doesn’t mean you agree with their actions or pretend the pain never happened. Forgiveness is about freeing yourself from the emotional burden, not about excusing someone else’s behavior.
- Forgiveness Doesn’t Mean Staying Around Toxic People: Forgiving someone doesn’t mean you need to keep them in your life. You have every right to create boundaries with those who’ve hurt you. You can release the anger and hurt while choosing to move on without them in your life.
- Forgiveness Doesn’t Mean Trusting Again: If someone has broken your trust, forgiveness doesn’t require you to trust them again. Letting go of the pain and resentment doesn’t mean ignoring patterns of behavior that may harm you. Protecting yourself is part of self-care, and you can forgive without putting yourself at risk.
- Forgiveness Isn’t Weakness: Choosing to forgive someone is one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself. It isn’t a sign of weakness or giving away your power. In fact, it takes immense strength to let go of pain that may have defined you for so long.
The True Purpose of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is not about forgetting or condoning what happened. It’s about reclaiming your peace and moving forward unburdened. Imagine holding a small flower in your hands—a symbol of the beauty and peace you can cultivate in your life when you let go of the past. When you release resentment, you create space for new growth, joy, and peace.
If you’re ready to take steps toward forgiving and reclaiming your peace, know that support is available. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Forgiveness isn’t letting them off the hook. It’s freeing yourself to grow.
For more support on your journey to healing, contact us today.