Forgiveness

A word most people know but few understand
For how can you forgive what you can’t forget?
Memories are not erasable
They become a part of us
And who is more tormented?
The one begging to be forgiven
Or the one trying desperately to forgive
But falling short?
Both are their own kind of hell
The flames engulf us
And overwhelm our lungs with black smoke
Choking, gasping for air
We can save ourselves
But we don’t know how to let go
To breathe life into our souls
Please pardon my indiscretions
Allow me to be free of these shackles
And I will grant you clemency for yours
We can part ways in peace instead of resentment
Because the memories remain
We are not who we once were
We cannot pretend to be