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A simple outburst of rage—a disagreement between friends, a heated debate, or a reckless action—can swiftly grow into major consequences such as legal complaints and court participation. Too often, pride and ego force us to retain grudges, leading personal confrontations to escalate far beyond their roots. In these moments, we forget how swiftly injured feelings can lead to long-term damage.
This article, inspired by Pardon Day on September 8th, seeks to highlight the power of forgiveness. Letting go is not a sign of weakness; it is a deliberate decision to avoid additional emotional and legal harm. By choosing forgiveness over retribution, we protect our relationships while also promoting peace among ourselves and our communities.
Pardon Day celebrates the day in 1974 when President Gerald Ford pardoned former President Richard Nixon for his involvement in the Watergate crisis. While it has historical roots in a political act, the message it conveys extends well beyond the halls of power.
Forgiveness is more than just a legal instrument; it is a profoundly human one. Whether in our homes, friendships, or communities, pardoning can help to de-escalate conflict and re-establish connections. Holding onto anger and allowing events to develop can have unintended effects, including legal action.
Science confirms what spiritual leaders and philosophers have preached for centuries: forgiveness is beneficial to us. The release of resentment has been related to lower blood pressure, less anxiety, better sleep, and improved relationships. It does not imply that we condone terrible behaviour, but rather that we remove ourselves from its influence.
When we forgive, we regain control—not of the other person, but of our own peace of mind.
As the phrase goes: “Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.”
– Attributed to Buddha
Grudges left uncontrolled can lead to legal disasters. Here are some examples we encounter much too often:
Family disputes that evolve into physical altercations, prompting police intervention.
Workplace disputes that escalate into defamation or harassment claims.
Neighbours feuding over property lines and ending up in court for years.
Friendships shattered over money or betrayal, resulting in lawsuits or criminal charges.
In many of these cases, legal action could have been avoided by prioritising communication and forgiveness. Unfortunately, by the time the law intervenes, relationships are frequently irreparably damaged, with far-reaching implications
What if forgiveness was the first instinct rather than the last resort? Pardon not only heals, but also prevents.
Imagine if more problems were settled through a conversation rather than a complaint. If misunderstandings were resolved before becoming accusations. If we halted, reflected, and asked, Is this worth sacrificing a relationship—or my freedom—for?
Forgiveness is not a weakness. It is foresight. It is choosing peace over punishment, and settlement over retaliation.
“Pardon is not weakness; it’s a preemptive act of strength.”
Forgiveness is not always simple, but it is always attainable. Here are several ways to start:
Reflect before reacting: Allow time to cool down before replying in fury.
Have a conversation: Many issues can be resolved by open and vulnerable communication.
Seek mediation: Consult a neutral third party before involving lawyers or police.
Write it Out: Even if you don’t send it, draughting a forgiveness letter can be therapeutic.
Receive support: Therapy, coaching, or support groups can help you work through underlying resentments.
This Pardon Day, identify just one person against whom you’ve been nursing a grudge and take a step towards forgiveness. It does not mean forgetting. It means liberating yourself.
In today’s world, when anger frequently leads to punishment, forgiveness is a silent but powerful revolution. It is the choice to halt, evaluate, and break the cycle of resentment before it leads to regret or a legal struggle. Adv. Abdul Mulla, the founder of www.asmlegalservices and www.lifeandlaw.in, has witnessed firsthand how many confrontations deteriorate unnecessarily. A moment of forgiveness can frequently save years of emotional and legal trouble.
On Pardon Day, take a moment to reflect: Are you hanging onto anger that is causing you to lose your tranquilly or harming your relationship? Not every conflict requires a courtroom. Sometimes the best move is to let go—not for the other person, but for your own freedom. Choose a pardon before the law becomes involved.
Adv. Abdul Mulla (Mob. No. 937 007 2022) is a seasoned legal professional with over 18 years of experience in advocacy, specializing in diverse areas of law, including Real Estate and Property Law, Matrimonial and Divorce Matters, Litigation and Dispute Resolution, and Will and Succession Planning. read more….
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