Making amends is up to the people who have offended me. However, when they do apologize, I accept their apologies because letting go of hurt feelings brings me peace.
It takes maturity and love to apologize for hurting someone else. I lift my hat off to anyone who does this without feeling slighted.
Being able to say, “Sorry,” means that consideration is given to how an action affects someone else. It is the same with accepting them. When I see that someone is sincerely hurting because of their actions, I release them from the pain.
I have regular disagreements with family and friends and that is okay. What matters is how we go about resolving them. Whenever anger causes unkind words between me and a loved one, it is put right immediately.
I am reminded that it is always me and that person against whatever challenge we are facing. Instead of taking it personally, I forgive them when they apologize. As a result, reconciliation comes easily.
Sometimes people have challenging days that cause them to lash out and I understand that. It is human to lose one’s cool from time to time. I refrain from holding it against someone when they willingly express regret for their actions.
Today, I can maintain a peaceful heart because I forgive others for their negative actions and refuse to hold a grudge.
Self-Reflection Questions:
1. How do I know when someone is being sincere with an apology?
2. In which cases do I proceed with forgiveness even without an apology?
3. How do I let others know that I still hold them in high regard?