I forgave you. I just don’t want you near me anymore. People confuse forgiveness with reconciliation. They think because you let it go that you should let them back in. Let me be clear about something. Forgiveness is for me access that has to be earned.
Just because I release the anger doesn’t mean I forgot what you showed me. Forgiving you doesn’t delete the data. It just means that I’m no longer angry or holding on about what the data actually revealed. I can forgive you and still not trust you.
I can wish you well and still not want you in my space. I can pray for you and still keep the door locked. Those things aren’t contradictions. They’re wisdom. The people who get upset when you forgive but don’t restore access didn’t want your forgiveness. They wanted their position back. They wanted to skip the part about accountability and go straight back to proximity. But proximity without change is just the second opportunity to do the same thing.
I’m not angry. I’m not bitter. I’m not holding a grudge. I just rather protect my peace than perform a reunion that I don’t even feel. Forgiveness, it doesn’t come with a key. You can be forgiven and still not be welcome. I’m not even being cold. That’s just clarity.
Justin Owens is an American entrepreneur, social media personality, and leadership trainer best known for founding New Age CEOS and Run The Play University. Born on November 18, 1986, he has built a massive online following by sharing motivational content focused on business, fitness, and personal development.
He currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia, where he mentors emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. Owens is also an award-winning author of the book Run The Play Playbook: Leadership 101, which outlines strategies for leading multi-million dollar organizations.
Owens began posting to Instagram in 2013 and has since amassed over 2 million followers on his primary account, @newageceo. His content strategy centers on “building people, not just businesses,” featuring short-form videos that offer spiritual wisdom, daily motivation, and practical advice on rejecting traditional paths to success.
On TikTok, where he also operates under the handle @newageceo, he has garnered over 723,000 followers and 18.6 million likes. His videos often discuss themes of resilience, such as facing worst-case scenarios without fear, and challenge stereotypes regarding success for Black professionals.
Business Ventures
Beyond his social media influence, Owens runs several business initiatives:
- New Age CEOS International, Inc.: A clothing line and organization aimed at entrepreneurs, designed to rebel against common stereotypes of success.
- Run The Play Inc.: An entity that offers free lessons on entrepreneurship and leadership, including a “7-day playbook” for aspiring business owners.
- Speaking and Training: He is an active speaker and sales trainer who has generated over $30 million in sales throughout his career, working with Fortune 500 companies on global campaigns.
Owens is also a father to a daughter and frequently identifies as a “#GirlDad” in his personal branding.
