In the Bible it says they asked Jesus how many times you should

Host: The café was calm, the soft murmur of conversation blending with the gentle clink of coffee cups. The warm light of the afternoon filled the room, casting a cozy glow across the table where Jack and Jeeny sat. Jack seemed deep in thought, his fingers absentmindedly tracing the rim of his coffee cup. Jeeny, sensing his mood, waited for him to speak.

Host: After a few moments, Jack looked up, his voice thoughtful.

Jack: “I came across a quote from Hillary Clinton today. She said, ‘In the Bible it says they asked Jesus how many times you should forgive, and he said 70 times 7. Well, I want you all to know that I'm keeping a chart.’ It made me think about the idea of forgiveness — how challenging it can be, and how limits often seem like a natural part of the process. But Clinton’s comment, even though it’s said humorously, points to the reality that forgiveness isn’t just a one-time thing, and it’s often much harder than we expect. Do you think it’s possible to forgive as much as we’re called to, or is there a point where it becomes too difficult?”

Jeeny’s eyes softened as she considered his question. Her voice was calm, but insightful, as she responded.

Jeeny: “I think Clinton’s quote touches on something deep about human nature and the struggles of forgiveness. The idea of forgiving someone 70 times 7 is not meant to be a literal number — it’s about the idea that forgiveness isn’t meant to have limits. It’s not about counting the wrongs, but about releasing the hold that anger or resentment has on us. Forgiving can be incredibly difficult, especially when someone hurts us deeply. But the process of forgiving allows us to let go of the emotional weight that comes with holding onto resentment. In a way, forgiveness is less about the other person and more about finding peace for ourselves.”

Host: Jack nodded slowly, clearly reflecting on her words. The quiet rhythm of the café seemed to deepen as he thought about the challenge of forgiveness.

Jack: “So, it’s about recognizing that forgiveness doesn’t mean we forget or excuse what happened, but it’s about releasing the hold that bitterness has on us. It’s about finding peace in letting go of the anger, even if it’s hard.”

Jeeny smiled gently, her eyes steady with understanding.

Jeeny: “Exactly. Forgiveness is a choice to move forward, not to allow someone’s actions to keep us stuck in the past. It’s not easy, and sometimes it feels impossible, but over time, it’s the only way we can free ourselves from the weight of grudges. The 70 times 7 is just a reminder that forgiveness is a continual practice. It’s not something we do once and then forget about — it’s something we need to keep choosing, even when it feels difficult.”

Host: Jack leaned back, a small smile forming as the realization settled in. The world outside the café continued its usual rhythm, but inside, the conversation had deepened their understanding of forgiveness.

Jack: “So, maybe the challenge isn’t about having an exact number of times we forgive. It’s about the practice of forgiveness itself — continually choosing to let go of resentment, even when it’s hard.”

Jeeny nodded, her smile warm with affirmation.

Jeeny: “Exactly. It’s about choosing peace over pain, and letting go of the emotional weight of grudges. Forgiveness is a long journey, but each time we choose it, we free ourselves from the burden of anger and resentment.”

Host: The conversation lingered, the quiet understanding between them deepening. Jack and Jeeny shared a realization that forgiveness is not just a one-time act but an ongoing choice to release the hold of anger and resentment. The world outside continued on, but inside the café, there was a newfound appreciation for the power of forgiveness and the peace it brings.