Rabbeinu Yonah explains that teshuvah is one of Hashem’s greatest kindnesses: while human courts rarely offer second chances, Hashem accepts us back through sincere words and remorse. The Torah teaches that teshuvah is not in heaven or across the sea but very near, accessible to every Jew. Rambam assures that even repeated sins are forgiven again and again if one repents sincerely.
Still, many struggle to believe that their teshuvah is truly accepted. Yet Chazal affirm that a baal teshuvah can even surpass a tzaddik, because his return transforms past mistakes into growth. Repentance involves three steps: admission, regret, and a firm decision not to repeat the sin. The Mabit stresses that unlike other mitzvot, each step of teshuvah is itself a mitzvah. Even a small stir of remorse has immense value in Heaven.
The Chafetz Chaim once encouraged a man who hesitated to study the laws of lashon hara because he thought change was impossible. The Chafetz Chaim told him that even if the learning only awakens a small pang of regret, it already elevates him. That single shift can start a path of teshuvah and bring great blessing.
Teshuvah is thus accessible to everyone. Just saying the words “I have sinned” is already an accomplishment. With each step we take, Hashem draws us closer, and we become purified through His compassion.