When we have expectations that are not
fulfilled, resentment can bring stress and pain.
When things don’t go our way, we can be caught
in grudges that produce a mental strain.

But when forgiveness lets resentment go,
the stress and pain we stored can dissipate,
and when we free the past, we come to know
that love can take the place of all our hate.

If every hour we release the past
from all the things we wanted it to be,
this act of real forgiveness can recast
the present time and bring us liberty.

Although resentment makes our stress increase,
forgiveness can bring freedom, joy, and peace.