Forgiveness is like faith. You have to keep reviving it

Forgiveness is like faith. You have to keep reviving it

Mason Cooley, a renowned aphorist and professor of philosophy, once said, "Forgiveness is like faith. You have to keep reviving it." These words hold a profound truth that resonates with many individuals who have experienced the power of forgiveness in their lives. Forgiveness is not a one-time act, but rather a continuous process that requires effort, commitment, and faith.

In the context of Mason Cooley's words, forgiveness can be likened to faith in many ways. Just as faith requires constant nurturing and reinforcement to remain strong, forgiveness also needs to be continually revived in order to maintain its transformative power. When we forgive someone, we are letting go of resentment, anger, and bitterness towards them. However, these negative emotions can resurface over time, especially when we are faced with new challenges or triggers that remind us of the past hurt. In such moments, it is essential to revive our forgiveness by consciously choosing to let go of these negative emotions once again.

Moreover, forgiveness, like faith, is a choice that we make every day. It is not always easy to forgive someone who has wronged us, especially if the hurt runs deep. However, by choosing to forgive, we are not only releasing the other person from their wrongdoing but also freeing ourselves from the burden of carrying around negative emotions. This act of forgiveness requires faith in the belief that letting go of resentment and anger will ultimately lead to healing and peace.

Furthermore, just as faith can be tested in times of adversity, forgiveness can also be challenged when we are faced with new hurts or betrayals. In such moments, it is crucial to revive our forgiveness by reminding ourselves of the benefits of letting go and moving on. By choosing to forgive once again, we are reaffirming our commitment to healing and growth.