I've been thinking about forgiveness lately. Is there a common line to draw?
I think its subjective, like colour. Some like yellow others green.
If someone forgives others no matter what they do to them, the perpetrator over time thinks they can do anything and get away with it.
The other end of the spectrum is stubbornness (or evil?). What about arrogance does it play a part in lack of forgiveness?. Likely
The relevance to mental illness in all of this could be that sufferers I think are more forgiving because we are more emotional, more fragile, more sensitive. softer? Than those without it. So where is the risk of forgiving too much?
In a world where clearly only the strongest survive if you fall into the above category, you'll be crushed by people that see you as a soft touch, an opportunists delight.
Remember the school yard and that bully?. But often we learned how to be a bully also to easy prey. It can be contagious. Hence dominance is in some peoples DNA through no fault of ours.
Draw your own lines of what you find intolerant. Sure, on specific confusing matters seek opinion from others then make up your mind. But the line you draw with poor treatment from others , anyone, even your parents...is your line and it is uniquely yours. There is nothing to be ashamed of where you draw it.
But, bare in mind that the things you should include in your judgements is that you have satisfied yourself that you have attempted to be compassionate, understanding, reasonable and communicative.
If its failef then move on and don't feel guilty. Some people might count on your guilt that you'll return, or your easily forgiving persona....draw the line for your own peace of mind and dignity.
Trying your best is good enough.
Tony WK
