Forgiveness

I've been thinking a lot about forgiveness lately.  Forgiveness is something that definitely does not happen over night and I have been wondering why this is?  God can forgive as soon as we have sinned, but yet it is so hard for us to do the same.  We hold grudges and we hold our anger in because we have been hurt, but yet holding this in only brings more pain upon ourselves. In Ephesians 4:32, Paul writes, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." These eloquent words remind us to be kind and to forgive, but sometimes it is just not that simple.  Two and a half years ago I had more hatred for someone than I have had ever before.  This past week, after years of prayer, I think I have found a place in my heart to forgive.  Forgiveness lifts our burdens and allows us to move on in peace; and though I know I will still struggle with my burdens forever,  I know God is always there to listen.