Forgiveness

One: It may be the hardest thing we will ever do,

Many: Caught up in our self-righteousness, honing our pain.

One: The one who offended may not deserve forgiveness

Many: And we are not obliged to offer it.

One: Why, then, should we forgive?

Many: Because we have all caused pain.

One: Because we all miss the mark.

Many: Because we can deepen our souls if we forgive.

One: Because restoring even one relationship heals many hearts.

Many: Because we would be forgiven ourselves.

One: Because drawing closer to one another builds our communities.

Many: Because the alternative is endless bitterness.

One: Because the world we seek to create is a world filled with forgiveness.

Many: Because we need not remain caught up in our self-righteousness and pain.

One: It may be the hardest thing we will ever do.

All: Let us take the first step now.

A person's hands and lower arms: the hands touch at the fingertips, palms separated, pointed upwards as if in prayer.