This may be an unusual question for you.  About 20 years ago, I was deeply hurt by someone.  Slowly over the years, I did not think about it, but just this week I suddenly remembered this painful incident from decades ago.  As I thought about it, I realize that I have no anger toward the person.  Would you label this as forgiveness on my part?

 It is difficult to say whether you have forgiven or simply moved on from the incident and the person.  As the late Lewis Smedes used to ask, “Do you now wish this person well?” If you do, then you likely are in the process of forgiving or perhaps have forgiven.  On the other hand, if you simply have no negative emotions, but are indifferent toward the person, with no concern or compassion at all toward this person, then this may be an indication of putting the past behind you without necessarily forgiving.  Do you wish the person well?

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Categories: Ask Dr. Forgiveness

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