Revenge and Forgiveness
Neural Pathways are activated in Forgiving.
Forgiveness has two ethical antonyms, Moral Relativism and Moral Absolutism, the former Cultural, the latter Universal. The commonality is that Forgiveness is not only a Free-Will as previously thought, but the outcome of Brain-circuitry, mainly through Emotional Amyloid Activation. Since the Amygdala is part of the Autonomous Nervous System, voluntary Activation turns into Overdrive with inconsiderate, potentially harmful, vengeful consequences towards the offender. Any feeling of Revenge must be addressed to Professionals who will contact Law-Enforcement, should the threat become intentional. The new definition of Forgiveness is letting go of Revenge. Past Hurt will lurk indefinitely in long-term memory however, erasing Revenge promotes Peace and Recovery.
So, can we still talk of Forgiveness in lay terms?
On a further level, has Forgiveness ever existed? Surely not, as redefined these days in psychology. Christianity has always defined Forgiving as “Commanding your offender to God”, to signify that it is ultimately His exclusive responsibility. “Commanding” is all He asks from us, yet even Commanding seems insurmountable when we are consumed by Revenge.
By refusing that context, we have coined the stereotype “I will never forgive!”, whereas Commanding would be the correct term.
Basically, both psychology and religion are affirming the same concept: Relinquishing resentments.
Moral Relativism vs Moral Absolutism
The practice is aggravated by two different cultural models: Moral Relativism and Moral Absolutism. The terminology speaks for themselves. Relativism is an individual choice. Absolutism is a universal choice, leaving no room for personal opinion, a dogma linked primarily to Biblical teachings, the way to go for practicing Christians. Relativism is primarily of Agnostic origin, leaving free interpretation of what is right or sinful, strongly cultural.
No judgement here, you know what works best for you, the goal is Relinquishing Anger.
The Brain Processing of Anger
MRI scans have shown the formation of new Neural Pathways in subjects during Commanding, a process named Neuroplasticity, meaning Brain-Rewiring.
Letting go of Revenge showed decreased Amyloid activity, promoting Emotional Regulation and Empathy in a general sense of wellbeing.
Conversely, angry subjects showed an overreacting Amygdala, resulting in feelings of counter-hurting, violence and generalized rage.
I understand Revenge doesn’t heal overnight, though Willingness is a start.
Let go of your anger
New Neural pathways start forming the very moment we are set to relinquish, making the journey gradually easier.
Everybody can do it, once we understand the Benefits over Retaining.
Counseling may be mandatory in heavy traumatized patients in the initial stages.
Family and friends should be empathetic and encouraging, avoiding unnecessary pressure. Giving testimony is the most powerful tool, Evidence is never triggering and strongly engaging.
Overall, be a good Listener and Witness.
