They are not simply doing; they are being.
Seeing Past Actions to the Human Within.
When someone wrongs us, the natural response is often vengeance or clinging to anger. However, here is a mindset shift: to recognise that people's harmful actions do not represent their full identity or humanity.
We are all complex beings, and forgiveness becomes possible when we distinguish between misguided deeds and the fallible but deserving souls beneath them.
It's easy to view those who hurt us as bad people encapsulated by their worst behaviours. But reacting punitively or with hatred only breeds more suffering.
The path of forgiveness acknowledges that we all make mistakes and struggle with fear, insecurity, and impulses that lead to harm. The victim and perpetrator are diminished when a hurtful action hardens into enduring resentment.
Deep reflection lets us discern the true nature behind people's destructive acts. Their hostile words or deeds reflect internal turmoil, past wounds, and fear of vulnerability.
These conditions call for our compassion, not condemnation. Who does not harbour pain and insecurity that sometimes distort our goodness?
We must leave space for human frailty and impulse while honouring each person's dignity.
Forgiveness is an act of separating hurtful actions from the actor's core being.
It recognises confusion and suffering beneath the surface. This understanding dissolves bitterness and replaces it with hope—hope that through love and support, both parties can heal.
We are all beings stumbling blindly in search of wholeness. With open hearts and moral courage, forgiveness illuminates the path home.
I found darts to be a better illustration than the one of a ball. Darts are sometimes taken by the wind, which is not entirely up to the players.