Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word

Sorry Seems to be The Hardest Word The other day I was shopping for groceries when a man bumped into me. On impulse I rendered a quick “I’m sorry” which was followed by him excusing the matter before going about his business. As I proceeded to checkout, it occurred to me: What was I sorry for? Sorry I’m not seven feet tall wearing flashing lights? Was it my fault he wasn’t paying attention? I was merely standing on the side of the isle motionless, yet I apologized like I did something wrong. Everyday we both hear and utter the words “I’m sorry”, and more often than not we are oblivious to its meaning and purpose. Consequently sorry has become a widely overused term and the power an apology once had has diminished. In order to reclaim the power of an apology it is important to understand the different motives and meanings behind them. An apology can be a powerful tool used to bring peace, stop arguments and restore broken relationships. People express there apologies out of compassion and respect towards others. However, an apology can also be an excuse in disguise. It happens when the offender apologizes without truly feeling sorry for their actions or wanting to reconcile. It is an attempt to avoid conflict. They may recognize the other party is hurt, but not accept responsibility. They may blame the offended party for their own hurt, or throw a pity party to weasel their way out of blame. Celebrities often give empty apologies due to public outcry. There are many types of apologies, good and bad, here are just a few:

Selfish Apologies A selfish apology is an excuse in disguise. It happens when the offender apologizes without truly feeling sorry for their actions or wanting to reconcile. It is an attempt to avoid conflict. They may recognize the other party is hurt, but not accept responsibility. They may blame the offended party for their own hurt, or throw a pity party to weasel their way out of blame. Celebrities often give