The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos Happiness Lessons of The Ancients: Forgiveness
Apr 19, 2021
Miroslav Volf, a Yale Divinity School professor, is celebrated for his insights on reconciliation and forgiveness, shaped by personal tragedy. He shares his family's journey from sorrow to a profound act of forgiveness after his brother's death. Volf discusses how forgiveness can unbind the deed from the doer, providing healing. He explores the Christian perspective on forgiveness, emphasizing its transformative power in relationships. Through poignant examples, he illustrates how embracing forgiveness leads to emotional growth and healthier connections.
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Volf Family Forgiveness
- Miroslav Volf's brother died in a childhood accident involving soldiers.
- His parents independently forgave the soldier, finding it both difficult and freeing.
Christian Forgiveness
- Christian thought emphasizes forgiveness as a core tenet, stemming from the concept of loving one's enemies.
- Jesus advocated for limitless forgiveness, suggesting it should be granted "70 times seven" times.
Defining Forgiveness
- Forgiveness is not simply managing emotions or resentment; it's giving a gift.
- True forgiveness involves acknowledging the wrong and "unsticking" the deed from the doer.