Chapter 15 - Forgiveness Is Not Forgetting
A small coffee shop in the suburbs of the city.
The older woman sitting in the corner booth looked haggard and worn.
Rosa sat down opposite her. Ethan sat at another table, far enough to give her space, but close enough for her to see him.
"I'm sorry," the woman cried.
Rosa looked at the mother who had once left her to endure coldness and abuse.
Her heart ached.
But she didn't cry.
"I waited fifteen years for those words," Rosa said gently.
"Can I make it up to you?"
Rosa shook her head.
"Nobody can change yesterday, Mom."
The woman bowed her head onto the table.
Rosa pushed an envelope forward.
"Inside is information for a good nursing home. All expenses have been paid."
She stood up.
"I forgive you."
The woman looked up, stunned.
"Why?"
Rosa looked toward Ethan.
"Because my daughter taught me that kind people are the strongest people."
Rosa turned and walked away.
She didn't turn back to hug her mother.
Forgiveness doesn't mean allowing someone to hurt you again.
Forgiveness is meant to set yourself free.
May you like
As she walked out the door, she took Ethan's hand.
"Let's go home."
