FORGIVENESS
(Reworded thoughts of many minds)
“Who from crimes, would pardoned be
In mercy should set others free.”–Shakespeare
Your reactions can cause more damage to you
Than insults, persecution or torture can do.
Reliving the things “that make you mad”
Is continuous suffering that is far worse than bad!
If we are wise, we will soon forgive.
Grudge-bearing is a miserable way to live.
God’s teachings tell you “Forgive and forget”
Don’t relive painful insults or slights.
Replace them with happy memories
Of enjoyable thoughts and sights.
It is cheaper to pardon than to resent
Forgiveness does the cost of anger prevent.
Hatred wastes time both night and day,
When forgiveness could banish it an easy way.
A wise man will make haste in resentment forgiving
And use the time saved for happier living.
Resentment makes one accident-prone
And maybe friendless-- and alone.
“An eye for an eye” is a sure-enough way
To cause you troubles for many a day.
Little minds store revenge and anger
Unaware forgiveness makes way for pleasure.
For the generous, forgiveness is an easier task
Than for one who offends, forgiveness to ask.
Forgiveness is the way of one who is kind.
It always gives him more peace of mind.
Forgiveness is the act of a noble soul
Who forgoes revenge and makes forgiveness his role.
A benevolent person knows how to forgive.
It’s a refined and generous way to live.
It’s a virtue for which we all should strive
If in heaven we ever hope to arrive.
Forgive faults and failings you see in others:
It’s the first step to take to love all men as brothers.
The teachings of God recommend forgiveness.
Resentment is an impassable barrier to happiness.
For forgiveness from God, forgive fellow men.
Forget their offenses: He’ll forgive you then.
Forgive before taking your gift to the altar.
You can then call on God and your faith will not falter.
Pardon, not wrath is God’s better grace:
A virtue to emulate before Him we face.
Forgive and forget for peace of mind
And happiness you will be sure to find.
–Ward Hicken
