To not forgive is to run – you will be running your whole life. To forgive is the first gulp of water you consume after that lifelong sprint. To not forgive is sleep deprivation. To forgive is to finally rest. To forgive is to embrace your pain with open arms, to console your own suffering – no one in this lifetime can do that for you.

Stubbornness may disguise itself in your mind as assertiveness. If no one ever forgave you, where would your life currently be?

Our existence is fragile. Acknowledge the reality of mortality. Our friend death is a consolation of what it means to be alive. Come back down to earth. Anyone can be plucked out of this little game at any moment in time. You do not have time.

Forgive your parents. Forgive your loved ones. Forgive the people you hate. Forgive strangers.

Welcome the ability to forgive in your life. If you do not think you are capable, do it anyway. Do it with doubt and fear and anger and sadness, in weakness and in strength.

Ephesians 4:32. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Leviticus 19:18. “Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people but love your neighbor as yourself.”

Quran 15:85 “We have not created the heavens and the earth and everything in between except for a purpose. And the Hour is certain to come, so forgive graciously.”

Forgiveness is a universal concept in religion because it is humanity at its peak. This year, I challenge you all to forgive in the same fashion as those who have forgiven you.