For years I’ve wondered what forgiveness really is. The people in my experience who require the most forgiving seem to think of it as something they are owed, like a “Get Out of Jail Free” card that they automatically collect along with $200 every time they pass Go.
I’m ashamed at how many years it took me to realize that forgiveness is not something that’s handed over automatically, but something that’s earned. And it doesn’t mean giving a chance to repeat the transgression, but giving a chance to demonstrate that it won’t be.
In the end, though, forgiveness simply means moving to a place where the hurtful thing truly no longer hurts and will no longer hurt again, wherever that may be. So forgiveness is something we really only owe ourselves.
Hey—here’s a bonus question. Which Monopoly piece are you and why? I’m usually the shoe, I think because life, to me, is a journey. And I like that little handle. Also because we seem to be missing the car, my former favorite. Did you notice?
Please forgive me, but I can't find a handle! There is an iron, and a cannon, though... I think I'm the wheelbarrow.
ReplyDeleteGreat post on forgiveness, Tam! As you know, I've had a bit of forgiving to do, too.
ReplyDeleteLet's see....a favorite Monopoly piece? I always wanted the little Scottie doggie!! Mmmmmm...and how strange, I named my first son, Scott!! :D
Lovely writing on forgiveness. :)
ReplyDeleteMonopoly piece? The shoe... because it is either in my mouth or kicking me in the rear. :D
Jules @ Trying To Get Over The Rainbow
Weedwacker, I meant the handle on the end of the shoe!
ReplyDeleteBecky, that's perfect for you!
Love it, Jules! :-D
Hi Tammy,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the thoughtful post on forgiveness.
Monopoly piece? The wheelbarrow. I'm always lugging around unnecessary stuff and seem to be trudging up an unending hill.
Donna V.
http://donnasbookpub.blogspot.com
forgiveness is definately something you can only earn from someone especially after hurting them... i know and am finding out from my own personal journey lately. however the real treasure is learning to forgive yourself in the process =)
ReplyDeletemonopoly piece for me was always the shoe, not sure why exactly but i never had to fight over anyone else to get it lol
Donna, that's so perfect!
ReplyDeleteJessica, you are absolutely right! Why is it so hard to forgive ourselves?!
i think its harder to forgive ourselves because its our own way of punishment for the wrong we did. just like no one can ever feel just how much shame we have stored on the inside and how much we beat ourself up daily....
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, Jessica!
ReplyDelete