“You will know that forgiveness has begun when you recall those who hurt you and feel the power to wish them well.”
Explore This Quote Further
The Power of Forgiveness: A Quote Analysis
In this quote from Lewis B. Smedes, the author touches on the transformative nature of forgiveness. As we explore the idea that forgiveness is truly beginning when we can wish those who have hurt us well, we are reminded of the immense power this act holds in releasing us from the burden of resentment and pain.
When we are able to recall those who have caused us harm and genuinely wish them well, it signifies a shift within ourselves. It shows that we have moved beyond the hurt and resentment and have found a place of peace and understanding. Forgiveness is not about condoning the actions of others, but rather freeing ourselves from the weight of holding onto anger and pain. It is a powerful tool for healing and personal growth.
Understanding Forgiveness in the Modern World
In today's fast-paced and often chaotic society, the concept of forgiveness is more important than ever. The quote by Lewis B. Smedes beautifully encapsulates the essence of forgiveness and its powerful impact on our lives. Let's delve deeper into the modern relevance of this insightful statement.
Forgiveness and Well-being
“You will know that forgiveness has begun when you recall those who hurt you and feel the power to wish them well.” - Lewis B. Smedes
This quote highlights the transformative power of forgiveness in our lives. When we are able to genuinely wish well for those who have hurt us, it is a sign that we are on the path to healing and letting go of past grievances.
Reflection Questions on Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a powerful act that not only sets us free from pain and anger but also allows us to wish well upon those who have hurt us. As you think about this quote by Lewis B. Smedes, consider the following reflection questions:
- Have you experienced moments where you were able to recall those who hurt you and genuinely wish them well? How did it feel?
- What barriers or obstacles do you believe are hindering you from fully forgiving those who have wronged you?
- How can practicing forgiveness contribute to your overall well-being and inner peace?
- In what ways can you cultivate a mindset of forgiveness in your daily life and interactions with others?
- How do you envision your life changing if you were able to forgive those who have hurt you and genuinely wish them well?
Similar quotes
“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.”
“When we forgive evil we do not excuse it, we do not tolerate it, we do not smother it. We look the evil full in the face, call it what it is, let its horror shock and stun and enrage us, and only then do we forgive it.”
“It takes one person to forgive, it takes two people to be reunited.”
“Forgiving does not erase the bitter past. A healed memory is not a deleted memory. Instead, forgiving what we cannot forget creates a new way to remember. We change the memory of our past into a hope for our future.”
“waiting is our destiny. as creatures who cannot by themselves bring about what they hope for; we wait in the darkness for a flame we cannot light. we wait in fear for a happy ending that we cannot write. we wait for a 'not yet' that feels like a 'not ever.”
“here also forgiving does not mean excusing. Many people seem to think it does. They think that if you ask them to forgive someone who has cheated or bullied them you are trying to make out that there was really no cheating or bullying. But if that were so, there would be nothing to forgive. (This doesn't mean that you must necessarily believe his next promise. It does mean that you must make every effort to kill every taste of resentment in your own heart - every wish to humiliate or hurt him or to pay him out.)”