Sometimes our mistakes can bring us together. We may find that someone else in the world has a story like our own. For years, we were separated. In the physical sense, my Father Odell Hicks Jr. has spent most of his life incarcerated. in·​car·​cer·​at·​ed ... confined in a jail or prison. I often wondered what my life would have been like if my father was not confined. If he was able to have freedom. The emotional turmoil is what caused me the most agony. I had no idea how to start the process of forgiving him and for the longest, I did not want to. I blamed him for being absent. I held a grudge against him, not knowing he was praying year after year to be set free. Our communication started with a simple letter. It was the only time I had responded to a letter he had written to me. Although, I received words from him dating back to my childhood years. My willingness to let my guard down and hear his side of the story equipped me with the desire to forgive. I acknowledge that letting go of pain is never easy, but some relationships can be restored. Accountability is the key that will open the door for communication. As I have come to realize, holding them accountable as well as yourself is crucial. Get everything out in the open and then forgive them for their shortcomings. Forgive yourself for the grudges you held and move forward. Forgiveness does not mean you are condoning their behavior or letting them off easily. In the actual sense, forgiveness is akin to making a vow to not be weighed down by anger, bitterness, or frustration.
Ephesians 4:31-32 says Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
So, open yourself up to someone and release the agony you hold so close. True wholeness is brought about through transparency. Our stories may not be pretty, but God still uses broken glass to change lives. You do not need to be perfect. You just need to have a desire to let go of the negative emotions towards those who have caused you any harm, including yourself. This book was written so people could see the power that lies behind forgiving and restoring relationships. We hope you will laugh and be encouraged. May you open your heart to love and let your guard down. Open your eyes to the world around you and change your perspective on things. During all the suffering, God still has more for you—A life that is beyond your imagination. You cannot give up. It is time for you to prosper. There is so much more to you than your pain. Take time to heal so that you may become whole. When you are ready, God will be there to restore all that was lost.