Forgiveness - H.H.Radhanath Swami

We understand everything within the entire existence is emanating from internal or external potency of the Lord. The whole material nature is working under the direction of Krsna. As we treat other living beings, Krsna will also reciprocate accordingly. So we have all been wandering through various species of life, countless births, what to speak of this life, in so many pervious lives, we have made offences, we have hurt others, we have exploited the property of God, we have engaged in sinful activities. Is there anyone who will claim he has never offended others? Has never engaged in sinful activities? Everything is a property of God, everything is meant for Krsna’s enjoyment. Every time we claim proprietorship of something and try to enjoy it, we actually are thieves; stealing what belongs to Krsna. So our only hope in spiritual life is that the Lord forgives us. If He does not forgive us for all of our offences, we have no hope whatsoever. But Krsna explains that He will forgive those who forgive others, if we are not willing to forgive people who have offended us, how can we expect Krsna to forgive us when we offend Him. If you forgive, you will be forgiven; if you do not forgive, you will not be forgiven. We see this as one of the great qualities of all great Vaishnavas. Now there is no limit to which they are willing to forgive others and therefore they are so very dear to the Lord. - H.H.Radhanath Swami