Tag: forgiveness

Forgive and Trust Again?

The question is often asked: “How do I handle a family member or friend who has violated my trust? Am I supposed to give the trust back when I forgive them?”

For an example on how Joseph Smith and the brethren handled a violation of trust, the story of Francis G. Bishop is illustrative. Joseph_Smith

One Francis G. Bishop, an Elder in our church, was very anxious to be ordained a High Priest, but he was not considered a proper candidate to fill the office at that time; and his urgent solicitations to be promoted to the High Priesthood, confirmed the Saints in the opinion that he wanted a high station without meriting it, or without being called by the Spirit of God to that work.

What Studies About Forgiveness Reveal

Studies reveal the following about forgiveness:

  • People who are more forgiving report fewer health problems
  • Forgiveness leads to less stress
  • Forgiveness leads to fewer physical symptoms of stress
  • Failure to forgive may be more important than hostility as a risk factor for heart disease
  • People who blame other people for their troubles have higher incidences of illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and cancers.
  • People who imagine not forgiving someone show negative changes in blood pressure, muscle tension, and immune response.
  • People who imagine forgiving their offender note immediate improvement in their cardiovascular, muscular, and nervous systems.

What is Forgiveness?

What is FORGIVENESS?

  • Forgiveness is the peace you learn to feel
  • Forgiveness is for you and not the offender.
  • Forgiveness is taking back your power.
  • Forgiveness is taking responsibility for how you feel.
  • Forgiveness is about your healing and not about the people who hurt you.
  • Forgiveness is a trainable skill just like learning to throw a baseball.
  • Forgiveness helps you get control over your feelings.
  • Forgiveness can improve your mental and physical health.
  • Forgiveness is becoming a hero instead of a victim.
  • Forgiveness is a choice.
  • Everyone can learn to forgive.