Apologies can sometimes be an easy way out—like Harriet Oleson saying she’s sorry for spreading rumors in the town newspaper. The meaningless words can be used as more of an excuse than heartfelt regret.
I can get all down on Mrs. Oleson, but it happens more than I’d like to admit in my own life. Whether it’s with my family and friends or someone I’ve only met twice, the classic “I’m sorry” line isn’t a magic cure. It’s ironic that most parents and teachers have enforced this trite response for years, forcing children to say sorry even if the remorse is missing.
So many of us have learned to be sorry in word, but the deed part is seriously lacking.
Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.
1 John 3:18 NLT
If you’ve read my book, I talk about my husband a lot. This chapter centers on the time he hurt my feelings… big-time. The groom’s opinion on a wedding dress is never a good subject for engaged couples to talk about. Take my word for it.
Sometimes saying sorry doesn’t cut it. It didn’t work for my hubby, but what did work was using the same opinionated spirit to change the dialogue. Kind words are stronger than apologies.
How can your kind words overshadow a meaningless “I’m sorry?”
How would your relationships be different if you replaced “I’m sorry” with “Will you forgive me?”
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