The Weight of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a complicated thing. Especially when you’re the one asking for it.

Recently, I humbled myself and apologized to someone I had hurt. It wasn’t easy to do, but I meant every word. I wasn’t trying to save face. I wasn’t checking off a New Year’s resolution. I was simply trying to do what was right—owning up to my mistakes and seeking peace, both for them and for myself.

But their response cut deep. They brushed it off, almost like my apology was a joke or a trend. And that hurt more than I expected. I had hoped for grace. Maybe even a little understanding. Instead, I was met with what felt like indifference.

Still, I couldn’t blame them. The truth is, I deserved that reaction. Their response was valid, even if it stung. There was no use defending myself. No need to justify. I knew the best and only thing I could do was apologize sincerely and let it be.

So I did. I let it be. And I’ve been working to move forward—not just in words, but in actions. To be a better person. A better friend. Someone who doesn’t judge, who listens more, who loves harder, and who forgives both others and myself.

Because forgiveness, I’m learning, doesn’t always come from the person you wronged. Sometimes it has to start with you. With God. With grace.

I pray that one day, that person understands just how sorry I am. But even if they never do, I’ll keep trying to be better. That’s all I can do.

We all make mistakes. What matters is what we choose to do after them.