This morning I went to a workshop by Amanda Lindhout on Forgiveness. Amanda was held in captivity for over 400 days in Somalia by Islamic terrorists. Today she led us through meditations on how to make forgiveness a daily practice. I was sorry I missed her talk last night because I think she shared more of her ordeal but today was a good reminder of the importance of forgiveness in daily life. As in the Examen she suggested that once a day, one reviews their life to see where, in Ignatian words and not hers, we saw God and where we did not. In other words, look back over the day and see where anger did not allow you to be kind to someone. Where did you fail to show compassion? Where did someone hurt you? Where is forgiveness needed?

Daily practice of reflection is important. St. Ignatius thought the Examen was of extreme value. I agree that it reveals unhealthy patterns and allows the person to move to freedom. Forgiveness is all about living a freer life. Who do you need to forgive tonight? Can you take a baby step in that direction?

Peace,

Suzanne