Many stories have been shared about the power of forgiveness. One that sticks to mind is the story of the carpenter’s son named Jesus who died 2,000 years ago. While being hung on the cross, he prayed for those who were crucifying Him and forgave them. (Luke 23:34)

Another story that reminds me of the essence of forgiveness is the story of Eva Mozes Kor, a  holocaust survivor. She and her twin were subjected to human experimentation, while her parents and two older sisters were killed by Nazis.
These stories show us how evil mankind can be. Daily we have to make a choice not to become like them who have hurt us.

Though we might not be able to control the evil and hurt another can decide to mete out on us, but we can choose to forgive and move on.

During counselling, one will eventually ask, “Why must I forgive?”. My answer has always remained the same; “to set yourself free!”

The essence of forgiveness not only sets your free, but also gives you an opportunity to become whole and alive again.

Rich says…

Forgiveness is an act we must all engage in everyday of our life. If anybody is to get tired of forgiving, it should be Almighty God Himself.
Rather, He encourages us to forgive 7 x 70 times daily.

Think about it, have people offended you as much as 70 x 7 times today? If not, continue forgiving!

Benefits of forgiveness:
  1. Lowers the risk of heart attack.
  2.  Improves cholesterol levels.
  3. Improves our sleeping pattern.
  4. Reduces our level of anxiety and stress.
  5. Reduces the burdens of chronic anger (anger can affect our immune response which can increase the rate of diseases).

I have been hurt and betrayed by those I trusted and love. But daily, I take up the courage to forgive, for that is the only way to be truly free! It does not matter who has hurt/betrayed you – be it your spouse, children, family members, colleagues, community or others. Remember, forgiveness is first to set you free and secondly, to heal the relationship where necessary.

Today, we beckon you to choose a full life and it all begins with forgiving one another.

Love,
Ngee and Rich
(Dr. Richard and Ngozi Okonkwo)
Relationship Coach/Habit Instructors
Founders – Keeping Marriage Alive Initiative

“Will two people walk together unless they have agreed to do so?” Amos 3:3.

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