"As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothes yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful." (Colossians 3: 12-15)
She had been married to him for 12 years, and in that time period, his attacks had sent her to the hospital 3 times. This last time, she was in critical condition.
This last time, she finally left. But, she left broken and lost. She left without a known future. Her leaving made her feel lost, even though it finally meant she was freed from the fear of the next attack, the next blow-up.
Then she met the "group." A circle of people who helped her to heal, to believe, to see a future again. It took a long period of time, but she began to have hope. She began to believe herself valuable.....and lovable.....and worthwhile. She felt hope rise within her.
She has a job at which she is successful; she has a beautiful apartment; she has a circle of friends and a faith community who loves her. She has restored some family relationships. She feels joy.
Today, her divorce became final. The judge offered her the chance to speak. All she said was: "I forgive you. I hope you can be healed from your anger and hatred. You are imprisoned by them. I no longer am, and I never will be again. I hope you can be whole. I am on my way. Good-bye."
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts..........
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