A Climate of Forgiveness

A CLIMATE OF FORGIVENESS

In his tape Living Faith (Random House Audio Books, 1996), President
Jimmy Carter shares that forgiveness is fundamental to his life. He
says that without the knowledge that he can be forgiven, it would be
impossible for him to face his own shortcomings. This even includes
forgiveness of himself.

He relates that both he and his wife, Rosalynn, are "strong-willed"
persons who find it difficult to admit being at fault.

One day, after a particularly disturbing argument, Carter decided
that he would never let another day end with each of them angry with
the other. So he went out to his wood shop and cut a thin piece of
walnut, a little smaller than a bank check. On it, he carved the
words, "Each evening forever this is good for an apology or
forgiveness, as you desire." That evening, he gave the plaque to
Rosalynn. He reports that, so far, he has been able to honor it each
time Rosalyn has presented it to him.

With his plaque, Carter created a climate of forgiveness between the
two of them. Without the knowledge that we will be forgiven, how
quickly will we admit our own faults? And how can our closest
relationships be healthy if we are each afraid to apologize or
unwilling to accept an apology? A climate of forgiveness is a
necessary part of happiness.


Steve Goodier Publisher@... is a professional
speaker, consultant and author of numerous books. Visit his site for
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