Narcissism Glossary

Forgiveness and reconciliation are different

🕊️ Forgiveness is the survivor's own inner process of settling resentment; reconciliation is a mutual agreement to resume the relationship on rebuilt trust. They are plainly distinct choices.

Not forgiving — or not deciding yet — is allowed. And forgiveness and renewed contact remain separate choices.

Often seen in situations like these

You can choose to set down the resentment — and still never make contact again.

When this happens, try this

💡 Neither forgiveness nor reconciliation needs a rushed decision. Whether to reconnect gets weighed on its own terms: safety, behavior change after the apology, and your own wishes.

Type explanatory concept · Topic Recovery & getting help · Term Forgiveness vs. Reconciliation · Also known as Forgiveness vs. Reconciliation

View all terms