Apologies

It takes a lot of courage to apologize.

But before we offer an apology, it's important to make sure the extension of the apology comes not just from remorse, but also a genuine desire to lessen the pain we may have caused another.

Many times when we say "I'm sorry" we want to be met with an "It's okay" or "I forgive you" and quickly move on.

That's not really looking for forgiveness, it's looking for absolution. It's more about the one asking, than the one receiving

The real bravery comes from being willing to listen to the impact our actions may have had on the other person, and understand the hesitancy they may have in moving forward.

If they do choose to move forward with us, we should do so with compassion and gentleness to their needs. Their timeline should be respected.

Yes, it takes a lot of courage to apologize and to be willing to not only listen, but really hear the ramifications of our previous choices.

It also takes a lot of courage to know that we may not be forgiven.

Forgiveness, or not, the ACT of offering an apology when done sincerely, humbly and with complete ownership of our previous acts, can be immensely liberating for both parties involved.