In her book "Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith," Anne Lamott emphasizes the detrimental effects of holding onto grudges. She compares the act of not forgiving to drinking rat poison, suggesting that it ultimately harms the person who refuses to let go of anger rather than the intended target of that anger. By clinging to resentment, individuals cause themselves unnecessary suffering.
Lamott's quote captures the essence of how unforgiveness can be self-destructive. Instead of affecting the person who has wronged us, it creates a toxic emotional state that burdens us. Forgiveness, therefore, is not just a gift to others but also a vital step toward personal healing and liberation from emotional pain.