Many of us live with damaged relationships. Something was said or done that separated us from a person we cared about deeply. We despair over that lost connection every time we see or think about them.

The road to building back a relationship is found in one word: forgiveness. Some of us need to say we are sorry for what happened and ask for forgiveness. Others of us should offer the forgiveness required to make things right again.

No relationship is beyond the power of forgiveness when offered or accepted as a gift. Sure, actions need to accompany words and feelings, but the first step is always getting right with the past.

My guess as a pastor is that you could begin to rebuild a relationship right now if you were willing to try forgiveness. And I also guess you already have a name in your mind. The only thing stopping you is you.