The Power of Forgiveness

The day before the sentencing trial I was nervous to see the man who hit me in person. I was at home praying about it to soothe my anxious thoughts. I felt the need to open my Bible, which read, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). I decided to forgive him that day.

I read those words in the courtroom in front of both of our families. It’s been so healing for both of us. My fire chaplain told me early on that I could get bitter or I could get better. I chose to get better. What happened to me was wrong and it was unfair.

I had a lot of choices made for me. But one choice that I made for myself was to choose forgiveness.

Forgiveness didn’t change the past. I still struggle day to day with my disabilities. But I am able to move forward and live my life.

Choosing better over bitter has made me grateful for the small things. It inspired me to do something about the drunk driving epidemic, and not stand by and watch from afar.