How to Write a Letter of Forgiveness

Writting a letter of forgiveness can be an emotional experience.

A letter of forgiveness is not necessarily written as a followup to a letter of apology. The idea behind a forgiveness letter is to let go of past painful feelings and move on. Sometimes simply the act of writing can make a great deal of difference in your health and attitudes. If that's the case, you may choose not even to send it. In other cases, you may write it in response to an apology letter, or simply by itself, to let a friend or family member know that you are ready to begin the relationship anew.

Instructions

1. Make a list of the things you need to forgive. This in itself can be a very healthy process to release negative emotions. Try to make the list as comprehensive as possible. Even if you will not put all of them into your letter, it gives you the option to choose the content you want.

2. Write down any positives to the relationship. It can be useful to keep these in mind while you write.

3. Start the letter as usual with "Dear so and so," and leave a blank line below before starting. When coming up with your first line, think carefully. You want to start on a positive note.

4. Get right to the point and explain exactly what the letter's recipient has done to you and why you have decided to write this letter. Don't bring up every small detail, though. Instead, try to focus on bigger issues. Write from the heart and don't be afraid if the letter feels very emotional.

5. Tell the recipient why you have forgiven them. If applicable, tell them what they did to make you feel forgiveness. Try to add something positive about your relationship in the past, and if you are willing, mention that you would like to see them again or continue the relationship in some manner. Be specific. If you write vaguely, you may find yourself getting into something before you're emotionally ready for it.

6. Be honest. Perhaps the most important thing when writing a forgiveness letter is honesty, as you want to start any future correspondence on a good note. Thank them for reading your letter, and sign your name at the bottom. Whenever possible, sign with your signature in pen, as it makes the letter appear much more sincere.

References

• DRB Alternatives: Forgiveness
• Forgive Net: How to Write a Forgiveness Letter

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish