“Forgiveness is the fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.” ~ Mark Twain

Ever have one of those weeks or months where the same theme comes at you again and again from every direction?

For me the repeated theme lately has been forgiveness. Yes, I’m 39 and I still struggle with this one. There are people and situations I need to forgive, and people from whom I need to ask for forgiveness. Though I know better, I’ve been lugging around this unresolved baggage for too long. I’m willing to do it. I’d even go so far to say I’m anxious to let go and move on. But believing in the theory of forgiveness and becoming skilled in the practice of it are two different things. The forgiveness I want to set free is tangled in deep roots of hurt, and it isn’t easy to pry it loose and give it wings.

Last week I read this practical article on forgiveness. It reviewed some of the basic insights I already knew, but added fresh incentives to make sure I got the point. Then for the past several days my study time has been centered on this very subject, including readings in Romans 12. Today this article landed in my inbox from Family Life. And, of course, everywhere I turn it seems someone is talking about forgiveness.

Okay, okay. I get the hint.

How are you at offering and asking for forgiveness? Any other hints you want to throw my way?

(pic courtesy of raflowers, stock.xchng)