The Courage to Forgive

 “Forgiveness is not weak. It takes courage to face and overcome powerful emotions.” Desmond Tutu

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In your own words, what is the main idea of the quote above by the South African bishop and theologian Desmond Tutu?

“If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.” (Albert Einstein)

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Getting Personal

Have you ever forgiven someone who had previously caused you harm or heartache? If yes, was it hard to forgive them, and if so, why?

Have you ever been unable to forgive someone who previously caused you harm or heartache? If yes, what prevented you from forgiving them?

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“The quote by Desmond Tutu, ‘Forgiveness is not weak. It takes courage to face and overcome powerful emotions,’ underscores the strength and bravery required to forgive someone who has wronged you. It implies that forgiveness is not an act of weakness, but rather a challenging and courageous process that involves confronting and managing intense emotions such as anger, hurt, and resentment.

By emphasizing the idea that forgiveness is a courageous act, Tutu highlights the inner strength needed to let go of negative feelings and move beyond the pain caused by others. He suggests that it takes considerable bravery and emotional resilience to confront the hurt, anger, and bitterness associated with a past wrongdoing and to choose to forgive instead of holding onto these negative emotions.

This quote ultimately underscores the transformative power of forgiveness, portraying it as an act of inner strength and resilience that can lead to healing and personal growth. ” (AI ChatGPT)

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INSIGHTS for SUCCESS

“Forgiveness does not mean ignoring what has been done or putting a false label on an evil act. It means, rather, that the evil act no longer remains as a barrier to the relationship. Forgiveness is a catalyst creating the atmosphere necessary for a fresh start and a new beginning,” (Martin Luther King Jr.)

“As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison.” (Nelson Mandela)

To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you. (Lewis B. Smedes)

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By Gary and Esther Berkley

Gary and Esther Berkley are the authors of "Whatever You Become, Become Your Best - The College and Graduate Guide to Wisdom for Success in Life." Check it out at www.amazon.com/dp/B09593L5FT

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