Kevin Waugaman has always appreciated a wide range of music—from Green Day and Wu-Tang Clan to worship songs and pop hits. So when “Forgiveness” by Matthew West stood out to him, it wasn’t because it matched a specific taste—it was because the message spoke directly to something he hadn’t fully addressed.

At the time, Kevin was carrying some hurt—tied to professional experiences, relationships, and even things from his childhood. He didn’t seek out the song, but it found him. And the lyrics stayed with him.

Kevin is the founder of Momentors, LLC, a business and life coaching firm that supports professionals in navigating growth and change. His own career—from starting as a busboy to becoming a CEO—has shaped his understanding of leadership, emotional intelligence, and personal development. So when this song challenged him to think differently about forgiveness, it made an impression.

“Forgiveness” was written and performed by Matthew West, a Grammy-nominated Christian artist and songwriter known for turning real-life stories into songs that connect with listeners on a personal level. This particular track was inspired by the true story of Renee Napier, a mother who forgave the man who killed her daughter in a drunk driving accident. West used her example to write a song about the difficult—but freeing—process of forgiving someone who may never apologize.

Kevin didn’t see forgiveness as a weakness. In fact, the song helped reinforce something he already believed through his faith—that forgiveness isn’t the same as approval. It doesn’t mean you’re saying what happened was okay. It just means you’re choosing not to let it keep weighing you down.

What he appreciated about “Forgiveness” was how it worked on multiple levels. It was a philosophy, challenging his beliefs. It was a prayer, asking for the strength to do something hard. It was a mirror, helping him recognize areas in his own life that needed attention. And it was an affirmation, reminding him that letting go is often where healing begins.

Kevin isn’t someone who sits in his feelings for too long, but this song gave him space to pause. It wasn’t about one big “aha” moment. It was about small, personal realizations that added up to something meaningful. He recalled how certain lyrics echoed during times of reflection—like preparing a eulogy or working through quiet frustrations in relationships. The song helps him to shift his mindset.

In our conversation, Kevin shared how he’s learned to revisit forgiveness over time. It’s not a one-time act, and it's not always easy. But recognizing where it’s needed—and being open to it—is a sign of growth. The impact of the song wasn’t about volume or repetition. It was about timing, and being willing to engage with it when it showed up.

Kevin doesn’t claim to have all the answers, but he does value honesty, reflection, and growth—both personally and professionally. “Forgiveness” offered him a way to consider how unresolved hurt can quietly hold you back, and how grace—even when undeserved—can be a step toward freedom.

🎧 Catch the full episode here.

The Story Behind Forgiveness

Forgiveness (the song)

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