So I was watching Glee, and it seems like everyone’s got something to answer for (no spoilers, here, but trust me), but one of the things i was wondering is when one does something wrong and begins penance for it, when does it end? When does one complete penance? When is it no longer necessary to atone for something you’ve done in your past?
Curious as to what you thoughtful people might think on this. Thanks for your input, all.
–CiaTH
I don’t watch Glee, so perhaps you could specify what you mean: by “penance,” do you mean some sort of private act of contrition, rather than a formal rite such as Roman Catholic penance? If so, there’s no guideline other than your own satisfaction, and perhaps the satisfaction of those who were wronged, if possible. For comparison, the Catholic rite comprises confession (being both honest and thorough), contrition (being remorseful and determined not to do it again), and satisfaction (which may include time spent in prayer, good works, and sometimes (but not usually, I think) reconciliation with the wronged party.
If you’re not Catholic and not seeking forgiveness of sins, confession is still a good idea, but can be made to the wronged party, to some authority, to yourself, or to “the public,” be it a nationwide television audience or a small group of coworkers. Contrition is what gets the whole ball rolling, IMHO, and satisfaction (or atonement, if you like) can last as long as you’re dissatisfied. I don’t think it’s necessary to keep sacrificing yourself as long as you feel guilty, because you’ll be guilty forever; you just need to feel the books balance (and it’s good to get a read on this from someone else, too).