Reconciliation

Estrangement is such a painful, terrible thing; but reconciliation brings joy. The reconciliation of which I speak is not merely a matter of coming together again, or burying the hatchet. It's a multifaceted, complicated process with layers. When the estrangement is substantial, reconciliation is a process that takes time. It can only be properly understood when viewed holistically. Any other view gives just a glimpse of what reconciliation truly is.

To reconcile with someone is to agree in a way that is remarkable. The agreement is essentially to truly let bygones be bygones. It is forgiveness of past offenses and the willingness to walk forward, together, in love.

True reconciliation is genuine. It doesn't minimize the offense(s) that led to estrangement. Instead, it acknowledges the depth and breadth of the pain, while simultaneously refusing to let that pain be the dispositive factor as far as future dealings. Reconciliation is coming together, agreeing to deal with one another in a new, mutually edifying way.

If you are estranged from a loved one, I hope that you are able to do the hard work that is so often necessary to bridge the gap. I hope that you can come together again, and take comfort in each other's company. That's truly a wonderful thing.