We simply cannot forgive without cost.
To forgive we must absolve and absorb.
Absolve the person for making right how they have wronged you.
Absorb the cost for making it right.
Someone has to pay for being wronged. Forgiveness chooses to pay the cost yourself.
I'm glad that Jesus came down and paid the cost for my sins. My life was too difficult trying to live up to certain expectations (self imposed by my "beliefs") and redeem myself through good works. After accepting Christ, my sins are forgiven (although who doesn't still yet sin) and the works I do are through the love of Christ and to spread his good news.