So often apologies from politicians or corporate spokespeople only add insult to the original injury. “I regret that I misspoke.” “I’m sorry that my words were misunderstood.” But a genuine, heartfelt apology, which names the offense clearly and offers restitution, can bring about true healing.
How has an apology—yours or another person’s—made a difference in your life?”
Greetings, All! Dwayne, here!
The most profound apology ever made in my Life was during the reconciliation between my father and I. He was dying – in the midst of a two year battle with cancer. I was a recovering alcoholic. I came home to dry-out; and to help my mother look after Dad, and to help look after the place, in general – stuff Dad would have liked to be doing, if he’d been able (chopping wood and seeing that it was put in the barn to dry; and, once dry, bringing it into the porch so Mum could load up the stove in the morning … sweeping up and doing dishes, sometimes cooking – so she could look after Dad, as his health continued to fail; etc.). On one weekend, when we were all home, Dad asked us into is bedroom – one at a time. He’d raised me in a physically/mentally abusive manner (him being military & religious – he had predetermined perspectives on how any son of his should behave – lol).
We forgave each other; and we talked – cleared the air; in a very quiet, gentle manner. It taught me one of my greatest Life-lessons ……. [“Apologies”/”Atonement” is not meant to be carried out in a bitter or vindictive spirit.] Simple enough – common sense, to be sure – but oh, when wounded by another; how quickly we can forget that simple Truth.
Peace, Hope, & Bright Blessings!
Dwayne