Forgiveness

Sunday, we visited Walter who remains in critical condition at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center. I went for several reasons. Of course, to allow Muddear to visit and to visit myself, however, I had a second, serious and personal reason.

Walter and I have been estranged for over 30 years. He and my mother divorced when I was about 3 or 4 years old. He did then and still today suffers from alcoholism.

When my mother remarried, I was either 5 or 6 and my stepfather later adopted me. He is the only father I ever knew. I loved him dearly. However, I remained very angry and bitter towards Walter. In my eyes, he was the dad that treated my mother poorly and later abandoned me.

About 15 years ago, I committed my life to Christ and knew that I needed to forgive Walter, which at the time, I did. Yet, we were strangers. It was not until I began caring for Muddear that Walter and I began to interact - that was about 7 years ago. Even then, our relationship was strained and difficult.

Last weekend, I came to the realization that I stilled harbored some deep-seated unforgiveness within my heart. Therefore, on Sunday, I knew what needed to be done. It was time to formally forgive Walter and to apologize for harboring the unforgiveness. I am thankful for God's grace and mercy, for today I truly walk in peace.

Today, I am free.