All of Us Love Poorly Sometimes

Two open hands, palms up, pin the stem of a small yellow flower.

The work of forgiveness is so challenging—the actual work of it. The naming, grieving, empathizing, releasing. It’s like a death. A death of what we wanted, what we expected, what we’d hoped for, what we deserved and didn’t receive….We don’t get to control other people or outcomes. I am as devastated about this as you.

Forgiveness comes easier to people who regularly ask forgiveness themselves… All of us love poorly at some point, and infusing our community with ownership and repentance is contagious. Say you’re sorry. Ask forgiveness. This leads not only to stronger relationships but to better humans, and this world needs better humans.

excerpt from Of Mess and Moxie: Wrangling Delight Out of This Wild and Glorious Life (pp. 193, 195)