Forgiveness is one of the most difficult, yet liberating, acts a person can undertake. It doesn’t mean condoning harm or forgetting pain—it means choosing to release anger and resentment so you can find peace. Forgiveness heals emotional wounds, strengthens relationships, and allows people to move forward unburdened by the past. It is not just a gift for others, but a profound act of self-love. Here are five insightful quotes on forgiveness, along with a powerful true story that demonstrates its transformative power.
A True Story: The Amish Community’s Radical Forgiveness
In 2006, a tragic shooting took place at an Amish schoolhouse in Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania. Ten young girls were shot, five of whom lost their lives. Despite the unimaginable pain, the Amish community stunned the world by forgiving the shooter, Charles Roberts, on the very day of the tragedy.
They visited his family, offering comfort and support to his widow and children. They even set up a fund to help the shooter’s family with financial needs. Their act of forgiveness, though almost incomprehensible, became a beacon of hope and an extraordinary example of the healing power of grace. It showed the world that forgiveness isn’t about excusing wrongdoing—it’s about refusing to let hate and anger take over.
In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. gave a speech on forgiveness during the Civil Rights Movement, emphasizing how it was essential to healing and reconciliation.
Forgiveness is not an occasional act; it is a permanent attitude.
~ Martin Luther King Jr.
In 1954, C.S. Lewis wrote about forgiveness in his book Mere Christianity, focusing on how it’s an essential part of leading a meaningful life.
To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you.
~ C.S. Lewis
In 1995, Desmond Tutu, reflecting on South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, wrote about how forgiveness was key to healing after apartheid.
Without forgiveness, there’s no future.
~ Desmond Tutu
In 2011, Brené Brown spoke about forgiveness during a TED Talk, exploring its connection to vulnerability and the courage it takes to let go of resentment.
Forgiveness is not about forgetting. It is about letting go of the hurt.
~ Brené Brown
In 2013, Maya Angelou shared her perspective on forgiveness during an interview, emphasizing how it frees us from emotional burdens.
It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself, to forgive. Forgive everybody.
~ Maya Angelou
Life Lesson:
Forgiveness is not weakness—it is power. When you choose to forgive, you reclaim control over your emotions and your future. The Amish community’s story teaches us that forgiveness doesn’t erase the past but allows us to move forward without being shackled by anger and bitterness. Carrying resentment is like drinking poison and expecting someone else to suffer. Forgive—not because they deserve it, but because you deserve peace. Start with the small hurts, and as you practice, you’ll find the strength to forgive even the deepest wounds.
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