How many times have you said. “I’m sorry” in one day? Not able to count the times? Me neither. I am the queen of apologizing. From time to time “why are you always sorry?” is the question I’m left answering. Later, having to apologize for apologizing too much.
As a child, we were taught that “sorry” was the Band-Aid to all of our problems, mistakes and sorrows. Though because of its power, we have taken advantage of it.
How many times have you said. “I’m sorry” in one day? Not able to count the times? Me neither. I am the queen of apologizing. From time to time “why are you always sorry?” is the question I’m left answering. Later, having to apologize for apologizing too much.
As a child, we were taught that “sorry” was the Band-Aid to all of our problems, mistakes and sorrows. Though because of its power, we have taken advantage of it.
Over the years, we have developed a loss of meaning in words due to the abuse of overusing it, or simply using it in the wrong context. We tend to forget its true definition, power and how it could affect someone.
A few days ago, a lady opened her passenger door to put groceries away and hit my car just the slightest. Then she opened the door again, hitting my car a second time even harder. I said to her, “Excuse me you just hit my car.” She looked back at me, shocked, not knowing I was there all along. She responded, “Oh sorry,” then quickly rushed into her car to drive away before I could say anything. If she were sorry, she would not have done it a second time. It only felt like an appropriate time for her to apologize just because she got caught.
Never say sorry- unless you mean it. Save your breath. Why apologize if you are not genuinely sorry? Unfortunately, we use this word as a safety net to help us get through the day. Throwing around apologies when it seems convenient is a shameful thing to do. Sadly, it is something we are all guilty of. We apologize left and right to satisfy the other person and make it seem like we care. Thus, wearing out its powerful meaning.
Why have we become chronic apologizers? Many of us are sorry when there is nothing to be sorry about. We apologize for asking questions or when someone else is having a bad day. If you constantly say sorry for everything, nobody will believe your apologies anymore. They will be seen as lies. Save it for times that are necessary. If you were to speak to your friend while the teacher is talking, it is acceptable to apologize. Though you are not truly sorry if you plan on doing it again.
We need to bring back its true definition, so say it like you mean it. Sorry should not always be the answer to kiss our guilt or problems goodbye. Mistakes are inevitable. Depending on the situation, owning up to your mistakes will help you grow into a better individual.
Stop apologizing for everything that you do or think you have done. Mistakes happen. Life happens. It is okay to be human.
