Father Leo’s Daily Meditation

FORGIVENESS


“Without forgiveness life is governed by . . . an endless cycle of resentment and retaliation.”
–Roberto Assagioli

So much of what I resent in others springs from my unhappiness with self. I hate in others what I know to be in myself: arrogance, pride, narrow-mindedness, snobbery and dishonesty.

Today I am learning that as long as I refuse to forgive others, I am not capable of forgiving myself. Part of my denial is reflected in my attitudes towards others. Those character traits I refuse to forgive in others are buried within myself. I know that without forgiveness there is no freedom — and I wish to grow in freedom.

Today I am learning the difference between forgiveness and acceptance. I can forgive other people without accepting their lifestyle. I can forgive myself and still see the need for change. In my forgiveness is the hope for tomorrow.

Master, You taught that without forgiveness, there can be no pure love. Help me grow in the forgiveness of self and others.