Finding Strength in Forgiveness: The Inspiring Story of Wilma Derksen and the Loss of Candice

2025-06-13
Finding Strength in Forgiveness: The Inspiring Story of Wilma Derksen and the Loss of Candice
Winnipeg Sun

The unimaginable happens. A parent's worst nightmare becomes reality. When Wilma and Cliff Derksen faced the devastating loss of their 13-year-old daughter, Candice, at the hands of her abductor and murderer, they embarked on a journey that would challenge the very foundation of human understanding: forgiveness.

Candice's story is a heartbreaking one. Abducted in 1984, her disappearance gripped Manitoba, Canada. The subsequent trial and conviction brought a sense of justice, but for Wilma and Cliff, the pain was far from over. The legal process offered little solace, and the weight of grief threatened to consume them. It was then, amidst the profound sorrow, that they made a decision that would shock and inspire the world – a decision to forgive the man responsible for their daughter’s death.

The concept of forgiveness, especially in the face of such horrific loss, seems almost impossible. How could anyone possibly extend grace to someone who inflicted such pain? Wilma and Cliff understood this inherent difficulty. They didn't arrive at forgiveness lightly. It wasn't a sudden act, but a gradual, deeply personal process rooted in their Christian faith and a desire to break free from the cycle of bitterness and anger.

Wilma, a renowned speaker and author, has dedicated her life to sharing her story and the principles of forgiveness she discovered through this profound experience. She often speaks of the “Five Steps to Forgiveness,” a framework that outlines a path towards healing and liberation. These steps are not about condoning the actions of the perpetrator, but about releasing the grip of anger and pain that can hold a person captive.

The Five Steps to Forgiveness, as articulated by Wilma, include:

  1. Acknowledge the Hurt: Recognizing and validating the pain is the first crucial step. Ignoring or suppressing the emotions only prolongs the suffering.
  2. Bring the Hurt to God: For Wilma and Cliff, faith played a pivotal role. Entrusting their pain and grief to a higher power provided comfort and strength.
  3. Forgive the Offender: This is often the most challenging step, but it's about releasing the offender from your power, not excusing their actions.
  4. Commit to Healing: Forgiveness is not a one-time event; it's an ongoing process of healing and restoration.
  5. Renew Your Mind: Replacing negative thoughts and emotions with positive affirmations and spiritual principles is essential for lasting peace.

Wilma’s journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the transformative potential of forgiveness. It's a message of hope for anyone struggling with grief, anger, or resentment. Her story reminds us that even in the darkest of times, healing and liberation are possible. Through sharing her experience, Wilma Derksen continues to inspire countless individuals to find strength and peace in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Candice's memory lives on, not just in the hearts of her parents, but as a beacon of hope for those seeking a path towards forgiveness and healing. Wilma’s dedication to sharing her story ensures that Candice's life, though tragically cut short, had a lasting impact on the world.

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