Part 1: What are the principles of forgiveness?
We know that there are many parts and principles to understanding forgiveness. The
biggest and most important principle that I have found is compassion for the other person that
has wronged you. Grover could have easily been angry and never spoke to that man again for
killing his daughter. That would honestly be a very human reaction to have. Grover chose to not
hold anger in his heart, he chose to have compassion and understanding in this terrible
situation.
Another principle of forgiveness is memory. You shouldn't just forget what someone has
done too you. That kind of thought process can lead to a scary and potentially dangerous
relationship with the person you have chosen to forgive. You also need to be aware of cheap
apologies or cheap grace. Cheap grace is when forgiveness is forced by someone and not truly
forgiven for what has happened. This can cause strain in a relationship because past mistakes
that were said to be forgiven may not actually be forgiven.
Part 2: Understanding the principles of forgiveness
Now that we understand that we need compassion and good memory when it comes to
forgiveness, let's talk more about understanding the principles. In Elder Faust's conference talk
where he told the story about the milkman, it truly moved my heart and soul. It showed me
that forgiveness is not only about compassion, but it is something that can be taught. We can
teach compassion and forgiveness. We can share the love of the world with others. This story
really struck me that even if people are of different backgrounds and such, we are all here
together to love and strive for a better life. We need to be forgiving, loving, and understanding
of one another.