On NPR’s Life Kit, Stephanie O’Neill explains what forgiveness actually entails. The piece also offers effective ways to forgive and details how the concept is often highly individual.
O’Neill says:
“Contrary to popular opinion, the practice of forgiveness is not about condoning or making excuses for unfair treatment and other hurtful behaviors. It’s not about getting an apology or a show of remorse from the offending party. And despite what’s portrayed in films, novels, poems and love songs, it’s not necessarily about reconciliation. Granted, reconnecting with loved ones can be a wonderful byproduct of forgiveness, but it’s not a requirement or even a goal in some cases — especially if doing so would subject you to more harm.”
Read “Why Forgiving Someone Else Is Really About You” on NPR here
Photo by Saad Chaudhry on Unsplash