Forgiveness provides an opportunity for transformation, both individually and collectively. It not only contributes to emotional, mental, and physical well-being, but it offers the possibility for change, for redemption, for restoration—for hope and even love to blossom from pain and suffering. It can stop a cycle of hurt and create opportunity where there seemed to be none. Most of all, it has the potential to heal and open our hearts to love as well as strengthen and build our capacity for compassion and understanding.

But just what is forgiveness? Drawing from those who've studied it, we've compiled the following as a starting point for understanding and practicing forgiveness: Forgiveness is a conscious, willful choice to turn away from the pain, hurt, resentment, and wish for revenge that arises from a betrayal, offense, injustice, or hurt. Forgiveness involves a willingness to see the transgression and transgressor in a larger context, and to replace negative feelings with compassion and tolerance.

Forgiveness will not diminish or excuse the affront itself. It is not forgetting, accepting or justifying the offense. It is not pardoning, excusing, condoning, or even reconciling. And you don’t necessarily have to understand the offender or the offense to forgive.

To forgive is also deeply rooted in many of the world’s religious teachings, beliefs, and practices. For many, religious beliefs provide a roadmap and a resource for forgiveness—a touchstone that helps to deal with what otherwise might be too overwhelming.

The practice of forgiveness holds hope for transforming not only our individual health and well-being, but also the health of our relationships, schools, workplaces, communities, and beyond. While researchers continue to explore why and how forgiveness works in our lives, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, having witnessed the power of South Africa’s truth and reconciliation process, believes simply, "there is no future without forgiveness."

For essays and conversation resources, check out Four Conversations About Forgiveness.