“Forgive and forget” is a mantra that’s easier said than done. Asking or offering forgiveness can be a vulnerable moment that we try to avoid by justifying our actions or writing off the situation as accidental, or different from all the other times and therefore not necessary for apology. Whatever the excuse may be, the stories in this episode illustrate people who overcome their rationalizations and save their relationships with others by practicing forgiveness.

The Legend of the First Strawberry by Jenni Cargill-Strong (1:33)

A Cherokee Indian legend about a couple that grows apart and starts to forget about their initial love, but upon remembering they decide to forgive each other of their previous contentions. Learn more about Jenni Cargill-Strong by visiting: www.storytree.com.au

The Song Unsung and the Story Untold by Simon Brooks (9:54)

A husband and wife, who have never fought before, have a misunderstanding, and the husband leaves angrily. After some self-reflection, the husband returns and asks his wife for forgiveness. Learn more about Simon Brooks by visiting: www.diamondscree.com

Mary Yvonne and her Shroud by Dan Keding (21:05)

When Marie Yvonne, a skilled linen weaver, dies her only friends; Anrie, and Anne, take all of her linen, without leaving any for Marie’s shroud. Though Marie may be dead she wants a shroud and decides to set the situation straight and pay a visit to her friends one night. Learn more about Dan Keding by visiting: www.dankeding.com

Lawn Darts by Rick Huddle (29:23)

For Rick’s 13th birthday, he invites his two best friends over to play games, eat and spend the night in their trailer. It’s all fun and games until Rick accidentally hits the trailer with a lawn dart. His Dad reacts in an unexpected way. Learn more about Rick Huddle by visiting: www.rickhuddle.com

Robbery/Forgive Us by John McCutcheon (35:46)

At a folk club in Canada, John’s computer and phone are stolen. As a result he learns the importance of practicing what he preaches. Learn more about John McCutcheon by visiting: www.folkmusic.com