Many people hold onto a grudge because it offers the illusion of power and a perverse feeling of security. But in fact, we are held hostage by our anger. It is never too late to forgive. But you can forgive too soon. I am especially wary of what I call “saintly forgiveness.” Premature forgiveness is common among people who avoid conflict. They’re afraid of their own anger and the anger of others. But their forgiveness is false. Their anger goes underground. I define forgiving as letting someone back into your heart.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote sheds light on the concept of forgiveness and the complex emotions associated with it. It suggests that some people may hold onto grudges because it gives them a false sense of power and security, but in reality, it holds them hostage to their anger. It cautions against premature forgiveness, which may be motivated by fear of conflict or a desire to avoid confrontation, but may not truly address the underlying emotions. It defines forgiveness as letting someone back into your heart, indicating that forgiveness is a personal and intentional process that involves genuine emotional healing and reconciliation.
Who said the quote?
The quote “Many people hold onto a grudge because it offers the illusion of power and a perverse feeling of security. But in fact, we are held hostage by our anger. It is never too late to forgive. But you can forgive too soon. I am especially wary of what I call "saintly forgiveness." Premature forgiveness is common among people who avoid conflict. They're afraid of their own anger and the anger of others. But their forgiveness is false. Their anger goes underground. I define forgiving as letting someone back into your heart." was said in the book Becoming Attached (Summary) by Robert Karen. Robert Karen is a clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst who specializes in the study of attachment theory and its applications to individual and social psychology.
* The editor of this interpretation made every effort to maintain information accuracy. This includes the source and any key ideas or meanings conveyed in it.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
