by Sarah Mirembe
Photo: Jim Loring
Someone who has been offended or deeply hurt will usually feel they have a right to be angry, hurt and bitter. They may even plan to take revenge. In contrast, God asks us to trust him with our pain, trust him for justice, and forgive those who hurt us (Romans 12:17-20).
Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a very challenging issue because it seems to mean that the offender gets away free. They may have acted deliberately and may not be sorry. They may do it again and go unpunished. There seems to be no motivation for the injured person to begin this journey. However, even though forgiveness is not easy, it is necessary for the good of the injured person. People who are hurt and do not forgive often continue to suffer stress and emotional wounds because they are holding on to the anger and bitterness. Forgiveness is often misunderstood. It is a choice to let go of our hurt and resentment. It does not mean:
- that we excuse or approve of the offence
- that the offence is forgotten or did not matter
- that the offence has no consequences
- that the injured person, or their hurt does not matter.
Reconciliation
Reconciliation is a process that goes beyond forgiveness. It is achieved when people who have been in conflict reach a positive relationship with each other. Reconciliation usually requires an experienced mediator or counsellor who is trusted and can speak to every one involved in the conflict. This counsellor must be wise, emotionally mature, resilient, objective, and never take sides. He or she should be well respected in the community, and remain committed however long the process takes.
A mediator cannot solve the conflict on their own. All those involved must decide that reconciliation is the best option for each of them, that it is better than continuing the conflict. Everyone needs to be committed to the process, to making it as easy as possible to sit at the same table and live in the same community. Potential future conflicts should be discussed and worked through. Commitment to reconciliation must be demonstrated by an appropriate action. For example, in Uganda, this meant agreeing that children of former rebels can be accepted in schools.
Where an offence has been committed, the offender should be sorry, and ready to admit that. If they do not want to communicate, or are defensive, it means they are not ready for reconciliation. Sometimes people seek financial compensation. However, this is rarely a long-term answer. It might meet some physical needs of the injured person, but it does not resolve the situation. Ideas of revenge can always re-surface.
Reconciliation is not just an event. It must become a value and a lifestyle. It should be passed on from one generation to the next, through Bible study, discussion, discipline, and by living as an example. Forgiveness and reconciliation are part of a journey that few people make but whose destination is freedom, health, and peace.
Sarah Mirembe is a consultant and counsellor working with children and young people in Uganda. Her address is:
Box 2989
Kampala
Uganda
Email: jewelmirembe@yahoo.com