S
scriabin
Guest
After dealing with some father issues, I’ve confessed several times, talked to 3 different priests about it, and I know in my own conscience I have forgiven the man; I wish nothing but the best for him. BUT–and here’s where I don’t get it–whenever something comes up to remind me of this issue, I still get angry and I still go, yet again, to confession for anger.
My questions for you: What is the nature of forgiveness? Are there outward signs that ‘prove’ you have or haven’t completely forgived? Is forgiveness a matter of degrees or all-or-nothing? Scripture never says forgive and forget. Is it possible to forget? Have you really forgiven somebody unless you can forget?
All 3 priests said that I have expressed bona fide forgiveness and that the anger I continue to feel has nothing to do with the act of forgiveness that I have done. Yet I still hold on to this childlike nievete that believes when you forgive all should be better. :banghead: Is my conscience wrong and my anger a sign that I haven’t completely forgiven him?
Any insights from you mature Christians? Any book recomendations? Any comment will be appreciated.
My questions for you: What is the nature of forgiveness? Are there outward signs that ‘prove’ you have or haven’t completely forgived? Is forgiveness a matter of degrees or all-or-nothing? Scripture never says forgive and forget. Is it possible to forget? Have you really forgiven somebody unless you can forget?
All 3 priests said that I have expressed bona fide forgiveness and that the anger I continue to feel has nothing to do with the act of forgiveness that I have done. Yet I still hold on to this childlike nievete that believes when you forgive all should be better. :banghead: Is my conscience wrong and my anger a sign that I haven’t completely forgiven him?
Any insights from you mature Christians? Any book recomendations? Any comment will be appreciated.