The Beauty in Our Imperfections

Alexander Pope, "To Err is human, to forgive is divine."

To Err is Human, let’s forgive

The famous quote, “To err is human, to forgive is divine,” is from Alexander Pope’s “An Essay on Criticism.”

Voltaire once shared a similar thought: “ We are all formed of frailty and error; let us reciprocally pardon each other’s folly,” which speaks right to the heart of being human. They pointed out that we are all built from a mix of weaknesses and mistakes. We carry them around, sometimes stumbling over them ourselves or tripping up on those of others. It is a simple reminder that nobody is free from flaws. Everyone has their little stumbles or quirks they wish they could change. And in truth, these are things we share that bring us together rather than set us apart.

When we recognize that everyone around us is as imperfect as we are, it becomes a little easier to let go of our frustrations with others. That irritating habit a friend has or that mistake a family member made, these become less personal and more relatable. When we realize that we all make mistakes and experience moments of frailty, we can move closer to understanding rather than judging. Each of us has our struggles and our own ways of trying to get through them.

Imagine a world where people were quick to forgive and slow to judge. We would feel a little lighter knowing that others look at our mistakes and choose to understand rather than criticize. In that same way, we can learn to return the favor. Each time we forgive someone else, we create a space where kindness and connection grow, and life becomes less about pointing out what went wrong and more about making the most of what is right.

Choosing to overlook failings or to let go of resentment is not always easy. There is a natural pull to want to be right or to feel that we have been wronged. But there is strength in rising above that impulse. By forgiving, we create room for growth, not just in our relationships but within ourselves. We remind ourselves that life is too short to hold on to grudges. When we choose to see the humanity in others, we build a foundation of empathy that can carry us through even the toughest times.

Voltaire’s idea is one we could all benefit from keeping close. Each of us brings something unique to the table, and yes, sometimes that includes our mistakes. Embracing these imperfections as part of the human experience brings us closer. In the end, when we can be kind to others despite their shortcomings, we open ourselves to receiving that same kindness when we need it most. It is a gentle cycle that makes life warmer and more compassionate for all of us.