FORGIVENESS is a gift that we first must give to ourselves before we can extend it to others. Only when we have learned to live at peace with our own shortcomings, can our hearts be ready to embrace our neighbor and forgive the sins of the other. Then we will finally experience the true Peace of Christ.
On the contrary, by hugging our imperfections to ourselves in angry contemplation, we will be beaten down emotionally, and unrepentant, we will be forced to tread a weary path of existence.
To forgive is to create an openness of the heart, to let go of painful hurts and deep-seeded anger, and to be rewarded with a lightness of step, akin to the graceful flight of angels in the wind! Pure joy will at last illuminate our path, radiate our entire being, and enable God’s appointed MISSION to be accomplished in us to the fullest.
SAINT VINCENT PALLOTTI prayed, “Grant that we may be concerned for others, gentle with their shortcomings, and gracious in answering their needs. When our own shortcomings and needs overwhelm us and tempt us to believe that we have failed You, help us to recall your gentleness and graciousness toward us.”
LOVE – not hardness of heart – conquers ALL – for the Infinite Glory of God!
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By Sr. Phyllis Carpenter, SAC
