Can You Not Forgive?

He is older, nearing the end. But he still hangs on to the past. He can’t forgive someone. He can’t let it go. He can’t find the grace.

I listen to him talk. There is bitterness in his voice. An edge. Like a dull knife that is worn with age and use.

“Why can you not forgive?” I ask him.

And then it’s the same old, sad story of feelings being hurt and reconciliation never happening. And so I summon the courage and ask, “But he’s your son. Would you prefer to die before making peace with him?”