50 Wildly Unhelpful Pieces of Advice People Hear All the Time

Forgiveness is often painted as a moral imperative, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The adage “You should forgive those who have wronged you” fails to account for the complexity of human emotions and the nature of the wrongs committed. Yes, holding onto anger can be like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer, yet forgiveness is a deeply personal journey, not an obligation.

Forgiveness can be a pathway to peace for minor transgressions met with genuine remorse. Forgiveness may neither be possible nor healthy for deeper wounds or where contrition is absent. Sometimes, the best course is to grant yourself peace by releasing the offense’s hold over you, which is distinct from absolving the offense itself.