Forgiveness is a doorway. A portal through which we can leave behind the pitiful prison cell of bitterness and the self-limiting victim mentality that empowers our mistreatment of others and step out into an expansive new land of freedom, joy and healing. Yet, we so often refuse to take the necessary steps to access our healing and new life. For many of us, this may because we misunderstand what forgiveness is and the crucial distinction between it and reconciliation. Many of us carry a shallow view of forgiveness that seems to downplay violation and injustice. However, as we explore in this conversation, forgiveness does not dispense with the need for justice, nor demand that we remain open to abuse or mistreatment. Rather, it empowers us to be free of past wounds and move with intention towards healthier lives and relationships.