Tutu Global Forgiveness Challenge Day 2

Here is what the Tutus wrote for today's challenge. Hope you enjoy it and consider signing up, if you haven't already.

Day 2: The Science of Forgiveness

Dear Friend,

Welcome to the second day of our journey to understand and practice forgiveness. Did you know that forgiveness is now gaining attention as an academic discipline studied not only by philosophers and theologians, but also by psychologists and physicians?

There are dozens of research projects taking place at universities around the world. Even neuroscientists are studying the biology of forgiveness and exploring the parts of the brain that light up when we forgive. There are even some who are looking to see if there might be a forgiveness gene somewhere in our DNA. Isn’t that amazing? Here is a quick summary of what they are finding.

The Findings

As modern forgiveness research evolves, the findings clearly show that forgiving transforms people mentally, emotionally, spiritually and even physically. There are psychological benefits to forgiving (reduced depression, decreased anger, increased self-confidence) but there are also very real and concrete physical benefits.

People who are more forgiving report fewer health problems and fewer physical symptoms of stress. When you hang on to anger and resentment and live in a constant state of stress, you increase your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, insomnia, anxiety, and so many other chronic stress-related illnesses.

So what do we want you to know today? We want you to know that forgiving is good for your health! It’s good for your body. It’s good for your heart. It’s good for your health. It’s good for your soul.

With Love,

Desmond & Mpho

Tutu Global Forgiveness Challenge

One of the inspiring and insightful Christians in our day is Desmond Tutu. He has started, as of today, a Global Forgiveness Challenge. Forgiveness, likely for most of us, is or has been a challenge, especially if there has been great loss or hurt due to cruelty, evil, oppression, injustice, abuse, etc. However, it is possible, with the help of God, thanks to the grace, saving work, and influence of Jesus. I don't think we ever become "experts" at forgiveness, given the human condition. However, with practice, hopefully we continue to learn and grow through the journey. So I've signed up for this 30 day challenge, how about you?