The power of forgiveness is often underrated in today’s world. It can be difficult to forgive other people for their mistakes or to forgive ourselves for our own failings but it is essential if we are to find peace, joy, and purpose in life. This article is devoted to forgiveness quotes, both of others and of ourselves. It will provide quotes from some of the world’s greatest thinkers to help guide us and provide us with the strength we need to forgive and to move on.
What Is Forgiveness?
Forgiveness is defined by Merriam-Webster as “the decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge”. It is a decision to accept that a wrong was done, but to choose not to dwell on it, and to instead focus on loving, kindness and cooperation.
Forgiveness of Others
To be able to forgive, we need to be able to tap into love and understanding. Here are some quotes from famous people on the subject of forgiveness which can help us along this path of self-love and understanding:
“Forgiveness is an act of the will, and the will can function regardless of the temperature of the heart.” – Corrie Ten Boom
“The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.” – Mahatma Gandhi
“Forgiveness is giving up the hope that the past could have been any different.” – Oprah Winfrey
“The greatest act of faith is when a person admits their wrongs and decides to forgive and move forward.” – Unknown
“The first to apologize is the bravest. The first to forgive is the strongest. The first to forget is the happiest.” – Unknown
Forgiveness of Ourselves
Forgiveness is not only for others, but for ourselves too. It is also important to be kind and understanding of our own mistakes and to choose to not get stuck in guilt, shame, and anger. Here are some quotes which can help us on this path:
“Forgiveness should be a conscious, willful act – not something we do because we are supposed to, because it is a good idea, or because it is ‘spiritual.” – Marianne Williamson
“Forgiveness is not an occasional act; it is a permanent attitude.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
“The most powerful weapon on earth is the human soul on fire.” – Ferdinand Foch
“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.” – Lewis B. Smedes
“The practice of forgiveness is our most important contribution to the healing of the world.” – Marianne Williamson
Importance of Forgiveness
Finally, let us acknowledge why forgiveness is so important. Not only is it for the benefit of others, but also for ourselves so that we can live with a peaceful heart. Here are some quotes which emphasize this importance:
“Forgiveness is not something we do for other people. It is something we do for ourselves to move on.” – Unknown
“It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself, to forgive. Forgive everybody.” – Maya Angelou
“The hardest visit is to the nearest place: yourself. And you can’t forgive anyone else until you visit yourself, understand your darkness, and embrace forgiveness.” – Vironika Tugaleva
“The practice of forgiveness is our most important contribution to the healing of the world.” – Marianne Williamson
“Forgiveness is an inside job. It can only take place within.” – Dr. T.D. Jakes
Forgiveness cannot be underestimated as a powerful act of kindness, healing and understanding. It doesn’t matter if you are forgiving another person or yourself, it is about taking the time to understand and to accept. So use these quotes to help you learn to forgive and to let go so that you can move on and live a life of peace, love, and joy.
