Discovering Forgiveness Book Review

Forgiveness is “an emerging, circular, interactive, complex process,” states Larry A. Dunn in Discovering Forgiveness: Pathways Through Injury, Apology and Healing. This book is informative and inspiring, it is not a “self- help” nor a “how to” book, but rather a walk through the process of forgiving others, as well as ourselves. The book was helpful in understanding the aspects of forgiveness, and that it is acceptable to feel “stuck” and unsure if you are able to forgive others. I admire Dunn, for his honesty where he admits that readers are no closer to a definition of forgiveness than when they first began reading his book. Dunn examines the numerous ways of thinking about forgiveness and the endless possibilities without undermining the challenges that come along with this journey. Many sections within the text emphasizes the concept of atonement, where there numerous helpful metaphors and examples to help make sense of what forgiveness entails. Dunn offers several dynamics within his text, more than just “I’m sorry”, “I forgive you” aspects, but understanding why forgiveness is being offered and knowing that it is reasonable to struggle with forgiveness. Dunn examines several stories throughout the text, however, one of the most commonly known and helpful is the story addressed in

“What does it mean to offer an apology.” “What must an apology include?” these are only a few vital questions Dunn offers about how an apology can lead to forgiveness. He understands the power of an apology can not only offer forgives to an offender, but also release the offended of heartache. “A desire to apologize may trigger a shift in the balance of power so that the one harmed gains the upper hand over the once-powerful offender.” Dunn offers the insight that often times forgiveness if first found when we forgive