​First of all, I like cats. (Where does such a phrase come from?)
 
Second, I'm grateful that there are many ways to understand forgiveness.
 
Not long ago, I had the opportunity to hear Father William Meninger describe his five steps to forgiveness. His description of the forgiveness process makes sense and, I'm sure, reflects the experience of many.

​Earlier this week, I was looking out the window and saw something familiar yet enlightening. When I looked through the window, I saw the people outside. However, when I looked upon the glass of the window, I saw my own reflection.
 
Forgiveness centers on the understanding that when we look out at others, we see them through the filter of our own reflection.

​In one quiet statement, I dared offer a bit of my real self only to immediately be challenged to explain it and defend it, and then be advised against it. Shut down again.