Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future.

When we are hurt, forgiving the people at fault can be incredibly difficult; we’re wired to keep defenses up to protect ourselves from more pain. But anger, resentment, and hatred are damaging emotions to hold onto, and a source of pain in themselves. Forgiving someone doesn’t have to mean reconciliation — it doesn’t change or condone the wrongs that were done — but it does help us let go of that negativity to make room to heal and move on. It “enlarges the future,” as Paul Boese wrote in 1967. The American businessman and writer published many of his philosophical thoughts in a weekly quote magazine, and his words on forgiveness have been an inspiration to countless people in the decades since. They remind us that forgiveness isn’t an eraser; it’s a blank page, and a chance to write a happier future.