The Gift of Forgiveness

Over the last week, I have had several instances where someone wronged me or showed themselves not who they made themselves out to be.  This happens, it is part of life.

My initial reaction internally in these instances was anger and a desire to "get even."  And while, I know that is not the right action to take, it took every fiber of my being not to follow through.  

Afterthe Battle of Gettysburg, Abraham Lincoln composed a letter to General Meade in which he expressed his major disappointment in Meade's inability to pursue and defeat Robert E. Lee's army.  It was a scathing letter.  One that would have probably caused Meade to resign.  But, Lincoln did not send the letter--he instead left it in his desk.  In the end, Meade served to help Grant win the war and defeat the south.  

If Lincoln had send the letter and Meade had resigned, it may have changed the course of the war.  

I remembered this lesson over the last week and while I wanted to act in a certain manner in my own situations, I realized the best thing to do was to forgive these people and move forward.  In doing so, I felt a weight being lifted off my shoulders removing the burden of being angry or in a negative state of mind.  I found clarity and I believe the should I need to interact with these people in the future, their better side will come out and we can find common ground.  I wish them well and hope that I others will forgive me when or if I make mistakes in my life.  This is the gift of forgiveness in our lives and we should use it as often as needed.