Forgive and Forgive
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Suppose the offender is not repentant, not sorry, do we forgive them anyhow? Reply
Forgiveness is not really about them. It is about us and our relationship to G-d and others. A few years ago, I came across a saying that really helped me understand this. It goes something like this, "Bitterness is like taking some poison and then waiting for the person who offended me to die." Forgiveness releases your mind from the bitterness of being offended. If the other person does not repent, that is their problem. Not yours. Now, if they continue to create a toxic environment for you, get away from them, if possible. Just because you forgive them does not mean you have to stick around for some more. ( I do realize there are situations where you cannot escape. ) Reply
Inspired by Rabbi Gurkow From our meeting at the JRETREAT we have remembered your inspiring words, and are now privileged to hear them on the internet, thank you Reply
We are not required to forgive but if we can find it in our hearts to forgive anyhow, it is a noble thing to do.