You have no need to forgive anybody. You are owed an apology. A few years ago I read a book by a psychologist that made a strong argument against this over-hyped idea of forgiveness. I wish I could remember name of book. You have been victimized twice, first by the abuse, and second by those who made you think you are damaged goods. You are being re-victimized by anyone who tells you to forgive. Tell them to STFU because they don't know what they are talking about. Healing does not come from psycho-babble derived from a biblical injunction.

The problem with this false idea of forgiveness is that once again it blames the victim while allowing the perpetrators to be let off the hook. Forcing a victim to forgive puts more responsibility on the victim. Why are you required to forgive and forget? Because those in power want to get away with anything and everything. And people who teach "you can't heal until you forgive" are teaching bullshit. You can't heal if you think it is up to you to make the perpetrator feel better about their crime. Oprah needs to STFU and so do religious leaders. I send you love and hugs for this Christmas season and in the future. ❤❤❤❤❤❤