Thanks Man! A good analogy!
Its interesting, I have not some to any declaration of "forgiveness," but have moved forward with healing while either "letting go" of THEM, or flat out ignoring THEM as factors in my life and my healing.
Though the perps are still elements of flashbacks and memories, I seem to have neutralized their significance.
So in MY humble oppinion, you can in fact move forward without declaration (inward or outward) of forgiveness.
I hope all is well with you. We miss seeing you around here, but do what you need to do to heal YOU!