Forgiveness
EMBRACE THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS!
“Boundaries are the distance at which I can love you and me simultaneously.”
-Prentice Hemphill
Forgiveness is often a challenging process. While it may come easily for some offenses, for others, the pain runs so deep that forgiving the person seems impossible. Forgiving someone who has hurt us or broken our trust can feel dangerous. Why? Because anger and fear deceive us. They make us believe that holding onto unforgiveness will keep us safe. Fear tells us that if we forgive, we will become vulnerable and risk being hurt again.
But the truth is, nothing can protect us while simultaneously causing us harm. Unforgiveness does not prevent someone from hurting us again; instead, it creates a false sense of security that drains our time and energy—resources that could be better spent on something positive. Unforgiveness allows those who have wronged us to continue to occupy space in our thoughts and perpetuate our pain long after the incident has passed.
Forgiving someone does not mean granting them full access to our lives again. It simply means we are wiping their debt clean, saying, “You owe me nothing.” Imagine extending heart credit to someone, only for them to rack up bad debt and let the account go to collections. Forgiveness clears that debt so we no longer have to carry it around. However, it doesn’t mean we are obligated to extend further credit or keep the account open.
While choosing to forgive is healthy, forgiving with boundaries is wise. Forgive, and then determine what healthy boundaries are necessary for the relationship. Prentice Hemphill wisely defines boundaries as “the distance at which I can love you and me simultaneously.” Forgiveness allows us to set that distance, ensuring we can love ourselves and the other person appropriately. For some, the boundary may be permanent, where love takes the form of forgiveness, prayer, and avoiding resentment. For others, the boundary may be closer, allowing for a relationship with less distance.
It’s crucial to understand that forgiveness and reconciliation are not the same. While we should always strive to forgive, reconciliation may vary depending on the emotional, psychological, and physical safety of the relationship.
Forgiveness is a gift —a release from the chains of anger, resentment, and pain. It is not about excusing the wrong or forgetting the hurt but about freeing yourself from its grip. By forgiving with wisdom and setting healthy boundaries, you reclaim your peace and create space for healing and growth. Forgiveness opens the door to genuine love, empowering you to care for others while also honoring your own self-love.
-Coach Jennie
To learn more about forgiveness, register for our upcoming workshop! If you’re ready to let go of past hurts and step into a life of greater peace and well-being, this workshop is for you. By attending, you'll gain valuable insights into the true nature of forgiveness, the heavy toll of unforgiveness, and the crucial distinction between forgiving and reconciling. You’ll leave equipped with practical tools to foster emotional freedom, improve your relationships, and enhance your overall health. Don’t miss out on this chance to transform your life—sign up today and take the first step towards a brighter, more empowered future.
