Would you forgive a killer of a loved one? Exploring forgiveness and grief

It’s one of the hardest questions you could ever be faced with: would you forgive a killer of your loved one?

On this episode of Wine Chats, Billi and Lyndsey unpack forgiveness, grief, and what it really means to let go when someone has caused unimaginable pain.

As Billi says:

“Isn’t that an interesting topic? Like, would you really forgive a killer of a loved one?”

Would you forgive a killer: The complexity of forgiveness and grief

Forgiveness is never black and white. For some, it’s a pathway to peace. For others, it feels impossible - especially when the crime was intentional.

Billi shares her perspective:

“My initial reaction obviously would be no - absolutely not. But forgiveness is good for you, because otherwise hatred just eats away at you.”

The conversation explores whether forgiveness changes depending on the circumstances, like an accident compared to a deliberate act.

“If there’s any pre-nature in the crime, you will not be getting my forgiveness. If it’s an accident… maybe.”

As Lyndsey points out:

“If there’s any pre-nature in the crime, you will not be getting my forgiveness. If it’s an accident… maybe.”

More than just a heavy chat

Of course, in true Wine Chats style, it’s not all serious. The episode features a delicious wine tasting from Budburst Wine Collective, where the Springvale Melrose Pinot Noir had the hosts swooning—despite struggling with a supposedly simple twist top.

Between sips and laughs, Billi and Lindsay manage to balance tough, emotional conversations with the warmth and humour listeners love.

Final thoughts

So, would you forgive a killer? While the answer might never be simple, exploring these conversations helps us reflect on our own values, boundaries, and the importance of forgiveness - for ourselves and others.