I ran across this statement somewhere and wrote it down in my journal before I forgot it. I thought it was worth some attention. Here it is:
Forgiveness doesn’t cancel consequences.
Forgiveness is an often-misunderstood choice. It is a choice. We can choose to forgive…or not. And either way there are consequences. When we choose to forgive, we are choosing to release the burden of blame. It is a decision to not carry the tension and heaviness anymore. Forgiveness is letting it all be as it is and moving on from there. The consequence of this decision is lightness and relief. The feeling of finally being done.
Having now been released from your burden, there are the consequences of how you choose to interact in the world. Sometimes forgiveness includes ending a relationship or setting different boundaries or caring for yourself in a new way. It may include saying no more often. Whatever it is to keep you in the lightness.
All decisions have consequences. Every-single-one. Deciding to forgive is sometimes hard, may take some time and for me, always worth it.
Feeling lightness,
Paula
