From the following little vignette, I learned that we might need to forgive more than once in order to finally forgive. We can take steps towards forgiveness, perhaps partially forgive, or forgive certain parts of what was done. We can keep working on it over time.
Quote:
I once was in a rage at a police officer in the village where I live for abusing my youngest son for no good reason. I stomped about my house for several days in a fury of anger at the officer. I knew I would be miserable unless I forgave him. But I did. I did forgive him. I forgave him by going into my study and getting on my knees, and saying, "Officer Maloney, I forgive you. In the name of God, I forgive you."
About a year later I saw this same officer drive by in a patrol car and I had to do it all over again. Only it was easier the second time. Then, a few years later, I heard that he had been fired from the force for abusive conduct. Hearing that tasted sweet as honey to me. I secretly smacked my lips with vengeful satisfaction. Then I realized I needed to forgive him one more time. Which I did.
And, who knows, I may have to do it a few more times before I'm over it.
https://www.calvin.edu/academic/phil..._forgiving.pdf
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