What do you do when somebody hurts you? Do you want to hurt him back or do you hold it against that person for
rest of your life? If you answer yes to these questions, know that you are like most people. To forgive is something that people generally have difficulty with. Why don't people forgive readily? Here's why, because it is easier to hate than to forgive. Some people think to forgive is a sign of weakness, but let me tell you, it is not. To forgive takes courage and extra effort.
What is forgiveness? It is a gift from a generous heart. Forgiveness is not a reward. It is not something that you give to someone based on his good behavior. It is something that you give to a person irrespective of whether he has deserved it or not. Forgiveness is also not based on whether person has asked for forgiveness.
Also know this. Forgiveness is not an event, which starts and concludes when you say words, "I forgive you". Forgiveness is an act and a process, which often takes time. The deeper your hurt longer it usually takes to completely forgive. It is an act because it is not just words you say but it is your actions which will show if you've really forgiven.
A fine example of someone who embodies true forgiveness is former South African president Nelson Mandela. Mandela was imprisoned by former all-white South African government for 27 years. Upon his release Mandela surprised whole world when he showed no bitterness towards his jailers. That is truly remarkable.
Why is it necessary to forgive? Forgiveness releases you from burden of bitterness and hate. It takes enormous energy to hate and to keep that hate in place. Forgiveness brings freedom whereas revenge is neither sweet nor gratifying, its just a hollow feeling.
