It was an extremely deep wound and I am working on it. Fortunately for me, Jesus Christ is helping little old me heal enough so that I will be able to forgive. Let us remember that Jesus Christ instructed us in His example of how to pray to ask for forgiveness EVEN AS WE FORGIVE THOSE WHO TRESPASS AGAINST US.
Sometimes, that help comes later than we would like, but it comes and the relief can be such a wonderful thing.
I think you are entirely right - forgiveness is a key to healing. I’ve heard it said that choosing not to forgive is like punishing yourself instead of the person who wronged you. I also know sometimes it takes time. I had a terrible wrong done to me and it took years before the feelings went away - even though I forgave.
ampu