How important is it for me to wait until the other person apologizes before I extend the hand of forgiveness? It seems that if I forgive unconditionally I am letting the one who hurt me off the hook.

I think it is a common error to think that the only way to receive justice or to have a chance to rehabilitate the one who hurt you is to wait for an apology.  You might consider forgiving and asking for justice at the same time.  You might consider forgiving and point out, as carefully and lovingly as you can, the person’s weaknesses that have led to your being hurt.  Waiting for an apology is not the only way to achieve a just end.

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