Apology and forgiveness are vital to human connection and personal growth. An authentic apology may begin the restoration of trust, dignity or confidence in people and institutions. The effect of admitting wrong doing, being accountable for causing pain, or accepting responsible for hurting others, is a critical aspect of self-awareness. Forgiveness is not dependent on receiving an apology (thank you Sister Vanzant for educating on this one). Apologies are not signs of weakness, nor the hallmark of insecurity. As it’s been said, admitting that you are wrong, doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. Apologizing is a constructive step forward. Now, if only America would take steps toward apologizing for slavery, and begin the restoration of esse, trust and dignity robbed from generations, with remedies that address its impact, still experienced today.
“A meaningful apology is one that communicates three R’s: regret, responsibility and remedy.” Beverly Engel