Yesterday we talked about how assuming the best about others enables us to be forgiving people who let go of offenses in our day-to-day lives. Today, I want to share with you a fifth and final thing you can do to live out forgiveness in your relationships: be the first to talk.

When we are married, or when we have children, or a roommate, or even a good friend, it’s important that we are always ready, willing and able to communicate and to be the first to talk. Rather than days of awkward silence or pretending nothing ever happened only to get down the road and discover that we no longer like each other, you and I can be proactive in reaching out, re-establishing connection and building a bridge.

Friend, when you take the first step back towards relationship after a rift, it is a sign of maturity; it demonstrates that you understand the importance and value of connection. Even if it’s just a brief encounter with a person you don’t know very well, if you sense tension or discomfort, step out and say something. Although it may be a risk, it ultimately leads to a more peaceful and joy-filled existence, and that’s good news!