Read

Read the dictionary definitions. Then, read the text. Match the headings (a–d) with the correct tip.

  1. See if you learned a lesson for life

    2.

  2. Take action to resolve the situation

  3. Let go of resentment

  4. Put yourself in the other person’s shoes

The Power of Forgiveness

According to statistics, many Colombian people are intolerant and violent because they don’t forgive their relatives, friends and neighbours easily when they have a fight or an argument. Colombians need to start making a change. If Colombians learn to forgive and reconcile their differences, they will reduce cruelty and violence in their daily lives. Here are some useful tips for why you should forgive the people who have hurt you and how to do this.

1.

If you really want to forgive someone who hurt you, you have to forget your feelings of resentment. Resentment can destroy your inner peace. For your own well-being, give yourself time to calm down. Talk about your resentful feelings to a friend or write them down. Soon you will feel better and will forgive more easily.

2.

If you feel you are a victim of intolerance, think how that violent experience taught you a lesson for life. You can learn how to choose good friends and how to trust other people. You can also learn about respect.

3.

If you try to understand the other person, you will learn that he or she is not all bad. Maybe that person never meant to hurt you. It was just a misunderstanding.

4.

Find the right moment to speak with the other person. Let that friend or relative know how you feel. Listen to how they feel, and accept their apology. You can also say you are sorry. Forgiveness has the power to cure body and soul. If you forgive, you will make people feel better and more emotionally secure. You will also feel better and will be someone who promotes peace.