In a great portion of religions in our world there is a universal belief in forgiveness. Buddha, Jesus and Mohammed showed mercy and forgiveness to both their friends and enemies.

A few scriptures/quotes:

Luke 6:37 (NIV) Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.

 John 20:23 (NIV)²³ If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

 

“Keep to forgiveness (O Muhammad), and enjoin kindness, and turn away from the ignorant.” (Quran 7:199)”

“Good and evil are not alike.  Repel evil with what is better.  Then he, between whom and you there was hatred, will become as though he was a bosom friend.” (Quran 41:34)”

“These two are fools. Which two? The one who doesn’t see his/her transgression as a transgression, and the one who doesn’t rightfully pardon another who has confessed his/her transgression. These two are fools. ~Buddha

When you forgive me for harming you, you decide not to retaliate, to seek no revenge. You don’t have to like me. You simply unburden yourself of the weight of resentment and cut the cycle of retribution that would otherwise keep us ensnarled in an ugly samsaric wrestling match. This is a gift you can give us both, totally on your own, without my having to know or understand what you’ve done. ~ Buddha

Now looking at those scriptures/quotes we can see forgiveness is something that is considered important to so many belief systems and/or religions.

Then why is it such a rarity in modern times? Why is their hatred, distrust and so much resentment in our world? Many read and hear the words , but few ever listen or want to embrace them. It is far easier to hate, resent and/or fear than to forgive and accept one another it seems. To hate someone because they are of a different race, religion or sex is not the right path to follow, we all are human, we all have problems, have emotions and most of us prefer to live in peace and harmony with each other.  Instead of hatred of what is different we should embrace our differences, this is what makes the human race a unique and marvelous species. Our diverse selection or religions and belief systems shouldn’t be what divides us, it should be what binds us through mutual understanding. There are similarities between most religions and we should focus on those things. Such things as forgiveness, compassion and love.

My wish is that every child of today and the future will be able to grow up happily, without war, prejudice and hatred. They deserve the freedom and happiness we have denied ourselves. It should be all about the children and the future generations not about our generations and our failings.

Freedom of Speech, Religion and Expression without the threat of oppression or consequence is the cornerstone of a utopian society. Prejudice, fear and the lack of compassion are the stumbling blocks of humanity.

Which path in life shall you choose?

I Wish Peace and Happiness To be in each one of your lives.
Ray Barbier