At Vanderbilt Divinity School, I have heard many theologians debate the power of forgiveness, some recommending it, and some avoiding it as giving power back to someone who has harmed you. My husband teaches me amazing lessons on this topic everyday. He really is my better half, and for better or worse, I am learning to listen to him. He greatly encourages forgiveness as Jesus Christ did. He has been an amazing role model as he forgives those who hurt him, moves forward and truly enjoys his life, not letting them hurt him anymore. For those who have tried this, you know this can be a monumental task, and not easily accomplished. I have tried to follow his lead, but I have to work hard at this everyday.
He is also responsible for me listening to Coast to Coast Radio AM where I found out the scientific benefits of forgiveness. He is a science buff and most of our conversations end up back in science or faith or both at same point, which is interesting. Luckily, in our home, the two seem not only compatible but indispensable. My 90 year old Grandma Tony who used to teach science for many years and is a faithful Catholic (so much so she still listens to Mass in Latin,) holds me faithful and true to their marvelous intersection in my theology. If ever I begin to doubt something in the Bible's compatibility with science, she will set me straight.
As a Christian Chaplain in training, I would love for you to follow Jesus's role in "turning the other cheek" however I realize not all of my soldiers are Christian, some might find the Old Testament's opposing messages confusing, or simply just find this too difficult. SO I think I found a solution!! The following link will give you access to Eldon Taylor's well-researched FREE CD on forgiveness and letting go. http://www.eldontaylor.com/articles/forgiveness.html
This CD has a more scientific approach to forgiveness and its importance in our overall health, happiness, and longevity.
God Bless You and I Do Too!
Jennifer
"Forget past mistakes. Forget failures. Forget everything except what you're going to do now and do it."
-- William Durant
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