Penance or forgiveness

So, what is the right way,

of correcting any wrongdoings, 

that can also send a message,

for people to keep striving,

a pious life, without any sins... 

People had such dilemmas, 

faced since the ancient times,

so, they went to higher authorities, 

to create a system of commands, 

that were followed without questions. 

Yet, power never stood still,

switched hands, at its will,

each time changing definitions,

of mistakes & crimes committed, 

to be punished or being forgiven. 

So, I pondered, sitting at fence,

browsing through various decrees,

trying to align it with human ethics,

hoping of find some sense in it, 

for, there's no substitute, to kindness. 

And thus, I reached at a point,

questioning motives, of such offense, 

done by the sane, under influences,

either carrying the guilts or regrets,

or were devoid, of any empathy. 

For, if we are aware, of life's essence,

we wouldn't have asked for forgiveness, 

or have deluded, of finding transcendence,

rather would accept any consequences, 

renouncing world, for a path of penance... 

To truly be remorseful of our actions,

and keep our society, away from trouble,

should we be assured of forgiveness,

or be prepared, to do penance,

when we stray, losing integrity??