Forgiveness appears counterintuitive in today's culture, where the tendency is to cancel rather than forgive, and to harbor resentment instead of offering grace. This prevailing attitude stems from a belief in our own righteous judgment—that we have been wronged, are owed amends, and that those who have wronged us deserve to face consequences.

But, forgiveness demands that we absorb the cost ourselves. Consider a financial debt: to truly forgive a debt means relinquishing the right to the owed amount, not just once, but perpetually.

Forgiveness is not a singular act but a journey. Drawing on James Clear's insights, every action casts a vote for the type of person that we aspire to become. This journey begins with the first action fueled by forgiveness rather than resentment. To embody forgiveness, rather than hold onto resentment, we must take ownership of our actions and continuously choose the votes of forgiveness.

This applies to that one specific situation and relationship that has been weighing on your mind and body.

This also applies to smaller moments of annoyance. When we find ourselves irritated by others' actions, it's a reflection of our internal judgment, asserting that they have wronged us. To cultivate a forgiving mindset, it's crucial that we recognize these moments as opportunities to practice grace and forgiveness. Otherwise, we may find ourselves casting more votes for an irritated, resentful heart than for a compassionate, loving, and forgiving one.