Reaching out and healing within

I had the tremendous privilege of attending a counselling seminar conducted by Everett L. Worthington, Jr is a professor of psychology at Virginia Commonwealth University. He has published twenty books on marriage and family topics.

Today, he spoke on strength-focused counselling. I was edified, encouraged and uplifted by his teaching and his humility and his obedience to God.

Among many treasures, Worthington spoke about REACH as a model of forgiveness.

Recall the hurt objectively

Empathize with those who have hurt us.

Altruistically give the gift of forgiveness.

Commit to the forgiveness we have experienced.

Hold on to forgiveness whenever we doubt that we have forgiven.

Among many treasures, he drew attention to this beautiful prayer that was found in the Ravensbruck Concentration Camp, 1945.

“O Lord

Remember not only the men and women

Of good will, But all of those of ill will.

But do not remember all the suffering

They have inflicted upon us;

Remember the fruits we have brought

Thanks to this suffering-

Our comradeship, our loyalty, our humility,

Our courage, our generosity, the greatness of heart

Which has grown out of all this;

And when they come to judgment,

Let all the fruits we have borne

Be their forgiveness.”