[Verse 1: Bassoon, soft bass] I believe in second chances I believe that people change I believe that being human Means there's plenty to explain But forgiveness isn't fiction And compassion isn't blind You can understand somebody And still tell them they were wrong [Pre-Chorus: Angel and demon duet] (Offer mercy) (Name the damage) (Choose compassion) (Practice change) [Chorus: Bright melodic syncopation] Let the mercy be demanding Let the kindness have a spine I can love the flawed and foolish Without pretending they're divine I am one of those imperfect I am one of those who fail If forgiveness means a future Then my actions have to change [Verse 2] I don't want a world of punishment For every human weakness I don't want a world where kindness Means accepting every consequence [Bridge: Vocal counterpoint] Mercy without honesty Becomes another injury Truth without compassion Becomes another cruelty [Final Chorus: Full harmonic lift] Let the mercy be demanding Let the kindness have a spine I can give myself forgiveness Without saying I was right [Outro: Quiet choir] Forgiveness is a practice Not a verdict
