“We chose forgiveness and love over hatred . . . 

Forgiveness is the greatest gift 

you can give yourself and to others.”

The above was said by the mother of three of the four children who were killed, on their way to buy ice cream, by a drunk driver. Surely if she could forgive someone who committed such a horrendous act, we can forgive those whose actions pale by comparison.

When grievances arise, is the turmoil we feel worth the suffering we cause, both for ourselves and those around us?

Does it make sense to dwell on seeming injustices that only matter because it is our very dwelling on them that grants them power over us!

Instead, we should strive to bring forth forgiveness. The reality is that clinging to a desire for retaliation will doom us to remaining lost in the past, unable to change it. Unable to move past our emotional turmoil. Unable to move on.

Forgiveness truly is a gift because it offers the possibility of happiness.