Well, let's think it through. How often do we say the words "I'm Sorry"?
When we are walking in a crowded area and a stranger accidentally steps on your foot. What are the chances that this person would take the time to turn around to say "I'm sorry I stepped on your foot, are you alright?" or something similar that amounts to an apology? Sure, in a case like this, sometimes, the person who stepped on your toe may express guinuine regret for the moment of pain that was wrongly inflicted on you.
Friendships are often wrought with misunderstandings and disagreements. Sometimes, tempers may flare when one is provoked but often, a grudging apology is uttered and all is forgotten. And sometimes, when this happens, we genuinely express our regret because we did not intend to hurt our friend's feelings. But often, the entire matter is shrugged off and life goes on...
Take an example that is closer to home. Your parents. In the span of growing up, how many times have you broken rules that your parents set? How many times have you answered back to them and broke their hearts? And did you ever take the time to reflect on everything that you have done and uttered a sincere apology to them? I am not talking about the "sorry"s that your parents made you say or the "sorry"s that you mutter in obligation or the "sorry"s that you retort with sarcasm. The "sorry" in question here is the one said with heartfelt remorse, contrite, guilt or shame. A "sorry" that is veracious and whole hearted.
Another perspective is close to the heart. In a relationship, arguments are virtually inevitable. In fact, a relationship without disagreements is pretty much unheard of. Well, "sorry" seems to be the hardest word to say, especially in a relationship. How many times have you raised your voice to your significant other and then just conveniently dismissed it without a proper apology? How many times have harsh words been exchanged without any "sorry"s being uttered? The lack of apology often leaves both parties with heavy grudges and lousy dispositions that can wreck the relationship. Why is it so difficult for us to comprehend that an apology is probably one of the most important elements needed to repair a damaged relationship?
*sigh* I guess everyone should have a slice of the humble pie when it comes to saying "I'm sorry". The worst thing is that it is easier to say sorry to a virtual stranger than it is to say the same words to the ones that we love. Why is that? Pride? Arrogance? I don't know... but what I do know is, I am going to give this a try and try my best to say that I am sorry when I have wronged someone. But it is going to take a lot of work and patience. To all that I love, be patient with me because this is going to take a little bit of time...
Maybe Elton John's right... SORRY does seem to be the hardest word after all...
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