188. Why Forgiveness Feels Impossible For Most People with Dr. Robert Enright

Forgiveness is one of the most misunderstood—and emotionally challenging—parts of healing. In this episode, Dr. Mario sits down with Dr. Robert Enright, a pioneer in forgiveness research, to unpack what forgiveness truly is, what it is not, and why getting it wrong keeps so many people stuck in pain. Together, they explore forgiveness as a process rather than a feeling, how it differs from excusing or forgetting, and why it has profound emotional, psychological, and spiritual impact. Rooted in both clinical psychology and a Christian understanding of suffering and redemption, this conversation offers a clear and hopeful path toward freedom, healing, and unity in Christ. 

Professor Robert Enright is a licensed psychologist and holds the Aristotelian Professorship in Forgiveness Science, Human Development Area, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He has pioneered the scientific study of forgiveness, which now claims over 1,000 researchers worldwide. He teaches courses in moral development with an emphasis on the psychology of forgiveness. He is a popular speaker on the moral development of forgiveness, with his work appearing in such outlets as Time magazine, the Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, and ABC’s 20/20.  

Chapters:

00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:06:22 - The Controversy and Challenges of Studying Forgiveness

00:08:52 - Understanding Forgiveness in the Context of Christianity

00:18:15 - The Importance of Distinguishing Forgiveness and Reconciliation

00:22:10 - Introduction to Dr. Enright's Model of Forgiveness

00:33:12 - The Role of Compassion and Suffering in Forgiveness

00:34:18 - The Fulfillment of Forgiveness as a Moral Virtue

00:37:30 - The Impact of Forgiveness on Psychological Health: Case Studies

00:43:03 - The Process and Importance of Self-Forgiveness

00:51:10 - The Role of Self-Forgiveness in Spiritual Warfare

Forgiveness as Unity in Christ Book Link: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/forgiving-as-unity-with-christ/

Salvifici Dolores John Paul II: https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/1984/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_11021984_salvifici-doloris.html

Every Word Scripture Journal: https://everyword.press/products/on-every-word-scripture-journal

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The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.