We're all human after all.

 There is no perfection in humanity. We are not equipped to get everything right the first time. As such we are imperfect, and bound to make mistakes. Some are small, some are big, some impact no one, some do. The impact these mistakes can make on our relationships depends on our ability to communicate and forgive each other.

I've seen in my own life where the inability to forgive creates anger, bitterness, distrust and dissolution of relationships, even within families. Disbelievingly, sometimes one party is not aware of the "Why?" they have been cast out.

In marriage, we are called to love each other for better or worse, and that's where these mistakes can be better, or worse. Our ability to forgive in marriage hopefully forges stronger bonds, but may not always be easy, and definitely not instantaneous. I wonder how many times in marriage, the inability to forgive, or lack of willingness to work through challenges experienced in marriage results in divorce.

As a Christian, The Bible is clear on forgiveness. Some of my favorite reminders follow. 

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times." Matthew 18: 21-22

And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins. Mark 11:25

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4: 31-32

"In your anger do not sin,": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:26-27

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13

Do not remember the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you, Lord are good. Palms 25:7

 There is so much freedom in forgiveness. Letting go of the bitterness, rage and anger, your heart does not carry the heavy burden of those feelings. There is lightness in the heart with forgiveness, and it makes the work of rebuilding trust - hopeful. Goodness we need more hope in this world.