"Good to forget," yet better if you have already forgiven
The deeds of a brother, once loved, who ceased to abide as your friend;
It may be kind to forget, so the past be entombed without sorrow,
Yet kinder the living hope that forgiveness holds without end.
How great the compassion of God to all who seek for atonement;
"Sins flung to the depths of the sea," "transgressions remembered no more,"
"As far as the East from the West," so far our errors removed;
We honor the Father by loving, but by forgiving adore.
Abide not in anger and fear, nor consume in the flame of resentment;
Let tempters not deceive you who whisper, "Revenge is sweet";
Include in your wide compassion both liege men and your foeman,
For if judgment join with mercy, then men and creator meet.
