Let’s talk about the power of forgiveness. Some people have difficulty with this because for them it’s actually hard to forgive someone. For me it was difficult, as well, because the way I grew up without my mom and dad made me bitter towards them. A few years ago I gave my life to God and it was then that God started dealing with the bitterness in my heart. One of the things that were removed from my life was the feeling of bitterness, towards my mom and dad. When I learned to forgive my parents, it brought a relief and a peace within me that I never had in my life before. In my life so many people had hurt me and did me wrong but when God came into my heart on October 23, 2011, he began to deal with me. I can never thank God enough for saving me from that pit. God changed my life and I will always be grateful for his love for me.

Mannie with my dad, Art, earlier this week.

My brother Mannie was like me. He actually had the same feelings but was more unforgiving towards our dad. Mannie, growing up, was always angry therefore he took a lot longer to forgive my dad then the rest of us. While I was third one to forgive my father, Mannie just didn’t seem to really care about him. While this seemed like a permanent feeling of unforgiveness, I had recently found out that he is now living with my dad and actually enjoys living there. Learning to forgive can help you to lower blood pressure and heart rate and reduce levels of depression, anxiety, and anger. Right after my brother forgave my dad, I noticed that my brother wasn’t as angry. He seems happier.

When we learn to forgive we learn to release all things that hurt us. With this release we open doors for healthier relationships, greater well-being, less worries, lower blood pressure, less likely to use drugs and less likely to be depressed.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32 NIV