Archer crossed his arms. “You have to settle this issue with Mom and Dad. It’s eating you alive.”
Landon tensed. “I can’t.”
“Can’t or won’t?”
“I don’t know.” He blew out a breath. “How did you do it?”
“First of all, it’s a process. Years of wrongs against us can’t be undone overnight, but you have to decide it won’t rule your life anymore.”
That made sense and resonated with him. Everyone else who had given him advice made it seem like reconciling with his parents should be instantaneous. He couldn’t see that happening. “Where do I begin?”
“Forgive them.” Archer stopped Landon’s protest with a firm stare. “It doesn’t mean you condone what they did to you. It doesn’t mean your relationship with them is automatically restored and they’re free of any consequences. It doesn’t even mean you have to place your trust in them.”
“Then what’s the point? What does forgiving them mean if not all that?” He took the pillow and wrapped his arm with it while trying to wrap his mind around what Archer said.
“It means you’re not held hostage to the bitterness their actions created in you. You’re releasing your rights back to God, Who always held them to begin with.”
Was it true? Was he a captive to his resentment? He didn’t have to ponder that for long to know the answer. “Do you ever worry you’ll leave your family like Mom and Dad did?”
Archer unfolded his arms and laid them flat on the armrests. “No. The thought crossed my mind a time or two, but I didn’t give them credence.”
“Why not?”
“Because I’m my own person and make my own choices.” Pausing, Archer scooted forward. “Plus, I think Gran and Granddad’s influence helped. They’re the epitome of commitment.”
He tossed the pillow aside and stood, needing to move. “I shouldn’t struggle with this. It sounds stupid, I know, but I can’t shake this feeling I’ll turn out like Mom and Dad. I’d rather not have a family then start one and leave them.”
“It’s not stupid. Considering our childhood, it’s understandable, but the very fact you’re so concerned about it shows you’re different.” Archer rose to his feet, came to stand beside him. “But honestly, at some point, you just have to know in Whom you put your faith and trust Him to guide you through.”
“Do you really believe Mom and Dad have changed?”
“I do. Sure, I have doubts at times, but Dad and I talk often, and there’s nothing that raises a red flag for me.”
He stretched his arms over his head, relieving the pent-up tension. “You make it sound so easy.”
Archer let out a deep chortle until he started coughing. “It isn’t, trust me. I’ll think I’ve completely moved on, then the anger or hurt will flare out of nowhere. When that happens, I spend serious time in prayer. It’s the only way, brother.”
“Let’s say I decide to forgive them. How do I go about getting my girl?”
“Just like you said—you go get her. Drive to Jasper Lake, talk real sweet, apologize and beg forgiveness.” Archer tossed him a grin accompanied by a wink. “And for the love of everything, shut up when you’re about to kiss her.”
It was his turn to laugh. “Lesson learned.”
“Good.”
“Will you all miss me tonight if I skip out on our New Year’s Eve party?”
“Yes, but I believe your presence in Jasper Lake is more important.” Archer slapped his shoulder. “What should I tell the others?”
“That I’ll be home for brunch tomorrow.”
“I can’t tell them where you are?”
He shifted his feet. “Not yet. If all goes well, I’ll call you and then you can.”
“Good luck. I’ll be praying for you.” Archer checked his watch. “When are you leaving?”
“Now.”
