FORGIVENESS SEEMS TO BE THE SECOND HARDEST WORD

Mr. Elton John sang of Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word. Saying it and truly asking for forgiveness are too different things.

The Wimpy Kid who wrote Gregory the note is a classic example. If he were really sorry, I don't think he would have offered the booger for recycling. And sensitive reader, that is the last time I will mention what he suggested as an offering of harmony or revenge.

But when we say we're sorry, hard as that may be, we can still mask our insincerity. "Now, apologize to your brother," probably never resulted in any true remorse. Waiting for just the right moment doesn't work well either. Because as time passes, so does guilt.

But so far, I've only addressed sorry. Do you think Gregory forgave? Me, neither. He may have even forgotten or put on the back burner the incident. I was tempted to say "wiped it from his mind", but I promised no more references. But if he's of the age to engage in that kid of behavior, I doubt that he is mature enough to forgive.

Even when we can truly say, "I forgive you," not many of us can add "and I've forgotten about it." That takes on a saintlike quality.

But when forgiveness comes, it really is a good feeling. When you can let it go, it is refreshing. It makes you feel as if you are a better person, not necessarily better than the one who wronged you, but you have illustrated that you have demonstrated a Christ-like quality.

Take it one step further and try to forgive yourself. No we are seriously talking about some tough stuff.