
Tumbleweed and Alligator
Thoughts and Ramblings of a West Texas Native and a Cajun Poser

FORGIVE.
I suppose we are meant to learn about life a little at a time. To know too much too soon would not allow growth, and certainly would not give us the perspective we need to be the best person we could be.
What brings me to this train of thought? Forgiveness. Remorse. Acceptance. Someone very close to me has been estranged from his brother and sister for a decade over something either said or done. While he has continued to reach out to them, and has continued to mourn over their broken relationships, he has done everything, said everything and begged for reconciliation, while neither brother nor sister respond.
When Jesus talks of forgiveness, he also alludes to our obligation to ask forgiveness. Each party is part of the act of forgiveness - one is the contrite, the other is the forgiver, and each is granted God’s mercy and grace for the role they play in the reconciliation of the relationship.
When both parties are not active in the event, neither can come away fully repaired, fully made whole.
We are taught that we must forgive unconditionally, and we will be blessed. However, I submit that when there is not an “I’m sorry” on the other end, there is heartbreak and incomplete healing.
The brother and sister who refuse to participate in the healing process of this relationship have forfeited the joy of reconciliation; they have shut out the kind of love one can only get from family. They have lost the extended relationships of nieces and nephews, and of the delight and pleasure of family gatherings, memories and celebrations.
Now, more than ever in the last decade, it is even more tragic a loss for all concerned. Our lives are reaching a point when loss of loved ones come more quickly, and life without our family members is riddled with moments of sorrow and regrets.
When we reach our day of judgement, I will want all debts paid, all relationships mended, all love restored, and my soul cleared of any clutter that will obstruct eternal happiness.
What my readers are saying
What my readers are saying
I have a sister who has not spoken to me in years over something unimportant. Forgiveness is not worth anything if it doesn't lead to reconciliation. Thank you for expressing something that I believe, but never had the words.
Sylvia M.