What Susan Shapiro Taught Me About Forgiveness – Reflections from the Podcast Marathon
If you’ve been listening along during our podcast marathon, you know how much I adore sharing episodes from our 50 Over 50 Podcaster Award winners. What a delight it’s been—especially today, as I got to highlight the Wisdom of my friend (and all-around powerhouse), Maria Leonard Olson.
Let me set the scene: Maria’s podcast, “Becoming Your Best Version,” shone in today’s episode. But what made it especially fascinating was the presence of Susan Shapiro, a specialist in forgiveness whose perspective genuinely caught me off guard. For me, “forgive and forget” has always been a sort of background music—something we’re taught from day one as little girls, almost like it’s non-negotiable. I thought I’d already exhausted this topic after decades of living and learning, but wow, was I in for a revelation.
Not All Forgiveness is Created Equal
Susan’s view is refreshingly real. She points out that forgiveness, especially the “radical” kind the self-help world is so fond of pushing, isn’t always the healthiest route. Sometimes we thrive precisely because we don’t let things go, using that fire to drive us forward. Can you imagine that? She actually shared stories of people who chose not to forgive—and found healing and strength in honoring their boundaries rather than endlessly turning the other cheek.
Thank you for joining me today!
I’m having a blast creating Fabulous Over 50 & it would be an honor to have you share it with someone who would enjoy it. Thank you!
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Have a blessed week,
Jen
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