Forgiving

Is Smart for Your Heart

Carol Ann Morrow

Illustrated by R. W. Alley

Abbey Press

For Pat Barker,

who believes forgiveness

is the most important lesson

and teaches that lesson so well.

A Message to Parents, Teachers,
and Other Caring Adults

We’ve all heard the expression “Forgive and forget.” The real order of the universe, however, is “Remember and forgive.” The purpose of this book is to help you guide your children in that true order. This does not mean allowing and accepting injustice, injury, or abuse. Adults as well as children need to name, recognize, and challenge these. Forgiveness goes a step further. It is letting go of any need to “get even.” It is believing that every person is more than any single action—even actions that seem to cause pain and sadness.