July 8. Forgiveness. The St Anne’s sodality meeting was reflecting on the readings.  “What makes some people able to forgive or be more forgiving than others?” Mrs Sekonya asked.   “It is so sad that there are times when division continues for years and years.  Over generations it can even grow into a real feud.” “I was very happy when my Joel decided to be the one to make peace with his brothers after they had argued for a long time about the family farm.”   

“I am Joseph your brother whom you sold into Egypt.  And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves, because you sold me, for God sent me before you to preserve life.”  Gen 45:5. From the story of Joseph and his brothers Genesis 37-50.

Pope Francis.  The Bishops of South Africa have pointed out that true reconciliation is achieved proactively by forming a new society, based on service to others, rather than the desire to dominate; a society based on sharing what one has with others, rather than the selfish scramble by each for as much wealth as possible; a society in which the value of being together, as human beings, is ultimately more important than any lesser group, whether it be family, nation, race or culture.  FT229.