I have a friend who flirts and befriends my old boyfriends. Little does she know that word gets around and she creates her own pitfall.

I have a friend who ties her worth to how much money she makes, her company title or lifestyle. Little does she know that man-given titles and worldly standards are temporary, fleeting and in vain.

I have a friend who finds cursing and rough language normal. Little does she know that she is defiled by her own mouth.

I have a friend who does not know the meaning of encouragement. Little does she know that the inability to see the best in others repel people around her.

I have a friend who won’t have my back when things get rough. Little does she know that what she reaps, she sows.

I have a friend who likes to compare my life with hers.  Little does she know comparison is a nagging insecurity she needs to break free from or it will consume her.

I have a friend who plots against me with my enemies.  Little does she know I have a Father who will protect me even when I sleep.

I have a friend who rejoices when I curse or stoop down to gutter level because it makes her feel good about herself. Little does she know that I have learned her tricks and will no longer be led astray by her crafty ways.

I have a friend who talks down about herself and others. Little does she know that she has to be kind to herself first before she can be kind to others.

I have a friend who thinks of me as competition. Little does she know that we are running different races in this life.

I have a friend…

With a friend like this, who needs enemies?

But you know what, my friend, I forgive you.

I forgive you though you least deserve it.

I forgive you though you find pleasure in my misfortunes.

I forgive you despite your insecurities.

I forgive you because I am immensely thankful for my own blessed life.

The war you are waging is not with me or the world, it’s within yourself.

I forgive you because forgiveness has permanently set me free from you.

I forgive you.