When we are courageous enough to open our hearts (D. Haas)

 

   Forgiveness cannot be forced. 

   Forgiveness, mercy, and the ability to move forward from our hurts can only occur when we are courageous enough to open our hearts and become vulnerable to ourselves. Then forgiveness can emerge and flower. 

   Before we can move forward to forgive one who has hurt us – we need to acknowledge what we feel: shame, the desire for revenge, sorrow, and feelings of poor self-esteem. Right there in the midst of these moments and feelings, we need to forgive ourselves for being human. Such feelings are more than understandable. 

   Then, we can make a new beginning. We need not carry the burden any longer. Then, forgiveness can get through.

--David Haas, Facebook, July 26, 2018 

Image source: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/the_healthy_way_to_forgive_yourself