I’ve been away and working on my novel and books, however, a reflection I read the other day during my morning prayers struck me with it’s profound message and I wanted to share.  It was written by Elizabeth Duffy and published in Living Faith, August 12, 2015.  The gist of it is this:

When someone hurts us, we often react with indignation, and our pride is wounded.  We want to assert our human dignity and may carry anger and resentment as badges of honor.  But this baggage hurts us so we must forgive.

Making peace is not retaliating in kind.  It is not shaming, not trying to mold the other person to our own image, not demanding perfect contrition.  It is rather an opportunity for reconciliation and mercy, gentleness and peace.  As we have been forgiven by a merciful God in spite of our own unworthiness, we too must forgive without strings attached.  We are all imperfect.  We all hurt and sin.  We all need forgiveness and reconciliation.