Giving Second Chances

Giving someone a second chance can be a difficult decision, especially when you have been hurt by them. Forgiveness is always good for your soul, but forgiving someone doesn't necessarily mean giving them another chance to hurt you. There is a very real possibility that they'll repeat the behaviour that made you pull away in the first place. Other times second chances lead to healing, growth and fulfilling experiences. When is it a good idea to give a second chance?

This is definitely a decision you have to make for yourself. It can be helpful to seek the advice and opinions of people you trust, but ultimately you are the one who will live with the decision. There are times when friends and loved ones will discourage giving a second chance because they love you and don't want to see you get hurt, but only you can decide if it's really a good idea or not.

The first thing you should consider when making this decision is: what has changed? If you pulled away from a friend, family member or romantic partner because the relationship was toxic, you should not give a second chance if nothing has changed. Does the other person demonstrate a genuine willingness to change? Has the other person expressed a new point of view and accepted responsibility for their actions?

Do you want to give this person a second chance? It could be a mistake. You could get hurt again. You already know this, but if your heart is telling you to give another chance it's probably a risk you're willing to take (even if nothing has changed). Sometimes the risk pays off with rewarding new experiences with someone you already care deeply for, and sometimes the pay off comes in the form of a painful but valuable lesson learned.

No one can make the decision for you and no one has the right to judge you for the decision you make, regardless of the outcome.

~*~Monica Who~*~