I have always admired the Christlike attitude of Pahoran, a judge in the Book of Mormon that lived during the time of great war among his people. In Alma 60, Captain Moroni sends Pahoran a strongly-worded letter, rebuking him for not sending support to his small troops. Moroni was extremely angry at Pahoran, and called him many names that would have made any individual upset. But in Alma 61, Pahoran’s response is simple, yet profound. He says, “And now, in your epistle you have censured me, but it mattereth not; I am not angry, but do rejoice in the greatness of your heart.”(Alma 61:9)
In the moment that Pahoran received and read the letter, he could have reacted in anger and frustration. He could have sent Moroni an equally rebuking letter, explaining how he was in a similar situation. Instead, he chose to react calmly, and focus on the good in the situation. He chose to see the good in Moroni, and he chose to forgive him.
Let this be an example to us of forgiveness and charity. When we have compassion on others and seek to focus on the good instead of the bad, we will be filled with love for those who could have angered or hurt us. Pahoran’s example of letting go of his anger and choosing to forgive lets us see that forgiveness and charity is possible.
We just need to choose it.
Choose charity.
-J.S.
