Last February, I sent an unsolicited apology letter to a person whom I violated with my action almost 17 years ago:
"'I'm sorry for bothering you. Lately, I decided I needed to make peace with anybody I came in contact with since my childhood, especially with those I hurt in one way or another.
I just want to make a formal apology for the stupid things I did that upset the whole group especially you when we're together. I have no excuse. I am sorry."
Perhaps, that person must have forgotten it already, but I did not. It haunts me. I haven't heard any reply or acceptance anymore, but that's immaterial already. Forgiveness heals the confessor first.
When we were young, apology was the gesture performed only by the younger siblings. Neither my parents nor my elder siblings humbly apologized to me. I was the youngest among the boys.
Today, at home, humble gestures of apology are everybody's business, elder or younger. I apologize to my wife. I apologize to my children... and we always ended each ritual with a hug and understanding.
Yes, apology needs a courageous heart, but it needs more a loving heart that believes in the innate goodness of each person…
Father,
We’re grateful for another day.
Now, committing mistakes and being imperfect
Makes more sense: it gives us the opportunity too
To forgive and to be forgiven.
Thank You for forgiving us first even before we ask for it,
In Jesus’ Name.
Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment