All of the above is true for many of us, but our past holds the blueprints of all of our trials and failures and we really need our past to live and survive in the future or the present. If we learn from our past, it will have value without the pain to use in the future. Lessons learned makes it easier for us to forgive ourselves and others. Our understanding of humanity and the reasons for their actions, choices, and decisions is a powerful tool that aids in our ability to forgive too. Plus, I believe that if you want forgiveness, then give it!