I agree with those of you who have said that forgiveness in this context is a personal thing, it's about letting go.

I found that it has been enormously helpful for me. I can no longer see the point in being angry about things that are in the past, that I can't change. Letting go is like a huge weight being lifted. For a long time I was very hurt and very messed up about things that had happened, but 'forgiving' means that it is no longer my issue to carry.

I also found that although initially it was very much about me, it also, eventually, allowed me to see the people (person, in particular really) who had hurt me with real compassion. What happened was terrible, and will never, ever be okay. But I am able now to view the person involved as a person, rather than only seeing what happened, and to genuinely hope that they have changed, not just for the sake of people they might hurt, but for their own sake. I understand that may be a step too far for many people, but for me it was necessary.

I do also agree though that it shouldn't be forced. It's okay to be angry. It's okay to NOT want to forgive. As long as you use it as constructively as possible and don't let it destroy you.