I can’t speak for others, but for myself, I know it is very difficult to forgive someone who has spread untruths about me.
Our priest suggested in a homily that we put their name on a favorite religious picture (on the back) and everytime we walk past it, put our hand on the picture and say a short prayer for that person.
I can now speak to the person who spoke ill of me and be genuine about it. (ASt first I had to pretend, but I still practiced saying “Hello.” etc.
Oops
At first
You did it like a proper Saint. It can be Hard. I have been there. Forgive our trespasses as we forgive others. Just put it into the Lords hands.
Well, I can certainly relate to forgiving those who have spread untruths about you.
I’m working on a new book entitled, “The Gossip’s Guide” so I’m very sensitive to that particular commandment. But I can tell you that it becomes easier to forgive people. Forgiveness is an act of the will, NOT a feeling. We decide to forgive. Each and every day.
My Spiritual Director reminded me that God will punish those who engage in detraction (or calumny) much more than we ever could, so they really DO need our prayers.