My family was on the receiving end of the "trouble" end of the equation this week, when a few teenagers went around our neighborhood throwing rocks at people’s fences from the bed of a truck. The result was well over 30 holes (two of which are in my parents’ fence) and an estimated $10,000 worth of damage. I struggle to see what would drive someone to indiscriminately throw so many rocks at fences, but I’m sure these young men found a rational reason to do so (otherwise they wouldn't have done it, right?). Within two days they were caught thanks to a neighborhood security camera.
To our surprise, on Saturday three young men came to our door. We didn't know them, but they apologized for the damage that they caused to our fence. My mom wasn't quite prepared for their visit, but she handled it very well. She thanked them for their apology and acknowledged that it was not easy for them to do that. They said they would pay for the fence to be fixed and apologized again. In what I thought was a perfect response, my mom told them she hoped this would be a turning point for them and that they would be sorry for what they did and not just for being caught.
Forgiveness is an easy word to say, but can be a hard thing to offer sincerely.
The Lord revealed these words to the prophet Joseph Smith, “Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin. I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men” (Doctrine and Covenants 64:9-10). It helps me to remember that God willingly forgives our sins when we ask. Should we not likewise forgive those who seek forgiveness from us? As hard as it may be, remember that forgiveness is the higher road—a road to happiness and peace.
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