17th century Quote by Thomas S. Monson
“The spirit must be freed from tethers so strong and feelings never put to rest, so that the lift of life may give buoyancy to the soul. In many families, there are hurt feelings and a reluctance to forgive. It doesn’t really matter what the issue was. It cannot and should not be left to injure. Blame keeps wounds open. Only forgiveness heals. George Herbert, an early 17th-century poet, wrote these lines: ‘He that cannot forgive others breaks the bridge over which he himself must pass if he would ever reach heaven, for everyone has need of forgiveness.’”
About This Quote
Source Speech: General Conference, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints, 2005
Holding onto resentment harms the holder; forgiveness frees the soul and restores inner peace.
In simple terms: Forgiveness releases emotional weight.
Key Takeaway
Let go of grudges.
Themes
forgiveness
emotional health
spiritual growth
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
advice
inspirational
When to use this quote
- family conflict
- personal trauma
- relationship repair
- self‑healing
Key Concepts
psychology
spirituality
interpersonal dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- What grievance are you clinging to?
- How might forgiveness change your inner state?
A Different Perspective
Forgiveness can be difficult when pain is deep.
