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You can forgive someone almost anything. But you cannot…

“You can forgive someone almost anything. But you cannot tolerate everything...We don't have to tolerate what people do just because we forgive them for doing it. Forgiving heals us personally. To tolerate everything only hurts us all in the long run.” quote by Lewis B. Smedes
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“You can forgive someone almost anything. But you cannot tolerate everything...We don't have to tolerate what people do just because we forgive them for doing it. Forgiving heals us personally. To tolerate everything only hurts us all in the long run.”

Lewis B. Smedes

About This Quote

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

Forgiveness frees you, but tolerating harmful behavior harms you.

In simple terms: Forgive, but don’t accept abuse.

Key Takeaway

Set boundaries after forgiving.

Themes

forgiveness boundaries self‑care

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • workplace
  • family dynamics

Key Concepts

ethical limits emotional health

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it okay to tolerate?
  • How do you differentiate forgiveness from acceptance?
A Different Perspective

Some may view tolerance as compassion.

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