The definition of forgiveness is to let go of bad feelings for others when they hurt you. You develop real character when you learn how to forgive others. Forgiveness is a great, positive power. When you can forgive, the quality of your life will improve immensely.

There are many reasons why you might feel bad about others. Some bad feelings are caused by accidental situations that may not be the other person’s fault. Your forgiveness is very important to help him or her feel better. In other situations, it may be very difficult to forgive someone who has been intentionally mean or unfair. You have the power to determine what reasons caused bad feelings, and then decide the best possible solution that could lead to forgiveness. 

Are you a forgiving person? How you would respond to each of the situations below?

1.      A friend accidentally spills his drink on your favorite pair of shoes. Would you:

     a.    Spill your drink over your friend in revenge?

     b.    Never speak to your friend again?

     c.    Forgive your friend because it was an accident and friendship is far more important than a pair of shoes?

2.  You are told that one of your friends has been saying untrue, mean things about you behind your back. Would you:

     a.    Say mean things about him or her?

     b.    Stop speaking to your friend?

     c.    Approach your friend and ask what is wrong?

3.  Your brother blames you for making a mess in the kitchen, even though you were not home all day. Would you:

     a.    Hit your brother?

     b.    Refuse to help clean the kitchen because you know that it wasn’t your mess?

     c.    Explain to your brother that you didn’t make the mess, but offer to help him if he needs the help?