So, the thought “Is it necessary to forgive” is an interesting one. If you’ve been raised with any sort of Christian background, than it’s most likely that you do feel a need to forgive in order to be a good person.
True evil happens when one person knowingly and with intent does harm to another with the purpose of making the other person suffer. In my opinion, there is nothing holy or sacred in this type of action. There is most likely contributing factors, abuse as a child, losing parents, etc, etc, but none of that matters. If one person harmed another in this fashion, forgiveness may not be justified.
But the funny thing about forgiveness is that we stop seeing other people as monster’s, and see them merely as really screwed up human beings. It’s not for them that we necessarily forgive them, but for ourselves. Once we see them as human, their hold of fear over us can no longer be real and can no longer be allowed.
No, I don’t think it’s necessary to forgive, but I do think it’s a good idea. I think forgiveness is a high intention, and only good things can happen from your life with that intention.
But, as I said, forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting. And it shouldn’t. It is your responsibility to do your best to not let fear, sadness or rage overtake you even when the actions of others are beyond reason. Whatever it takes to keep yourself from being the monster that hurt you, is the right action to take.
All best,
Rose
