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Often when someone apologizes - like a parent who says to…

“Often when someone apologizes - like a parent who says to a child, "I'm very sorry I neglected you when you were a kid" - they also ask, "Do you forgive me?," because they want the other person to be over it. However, healing can take a great deal of time. And if we forgive too quickly, we cut the…” quote by Harriet Lerner
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“Often when someone apologizes - like a parent who says to a child, "I'm very sorry I neglected you when you were a kid" - they also ask, "Do you forgive me?," because they want the other person to be over it. However, healing can take a great deal of time. And if we forgive too quickly, we cut the process short.”

Harriet Lerner

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Apologies often include a request for forgiveness, but true healing takes time; rushing forgiveness can hinder the process.

In simple terms: Forgiveness should not be rushed.

Key Takeaway

Allow healing time before forgiving.

Themes

relationships emotional health forgiveness

Mood

empathetic cautious

Type

self‑help psychology

When to use this quote

  • marriage
  • family conflict
  • friendship
  • therapy
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

psychology communication

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does genuine healing look like?
  • How can you support someone needing time?
A Different Perspective

Pressure to forgive quickly can cause resentment.

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