Bitterness Quote by Lewis B. Smedes
“When forgiveness is necessary, don't wait too long. We must begin to forgive, because without forgiving, we choke off our own joy; we kill our own soul. People carrying hate and resentment can invest themselves so deeply in that resentment that they gradually define themselves in terms of it.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Gift of Forgiveness, 1995
Forgiveness must be timely; delaying harms personal joy and spiritual health.
In simple terms: Forgive soon to stay happy.
Key Takeaway
Practice forgiveness promptly.
Themes
forgiveness
emotional health
spirituality
self-care
Mood
empathetic
hopeful
Type
self‑help
inspirational
When to use this quote
- relationships
- personal growth
- mental health
Key Concepts
Healing
self‑compassion
Questions to Reflect On
- What resentment are you clinging to?
- How might early forgiveness change your life?
A Different Perspective
Holding grudges can become identity.
