Two little words, but very powerful when stated or withheld. How many times can a serious argument (where one partner has hurt the other's feelings) be resolved with a simple, but heartfelt, apology. Yet we are often reluctant to do so. It is as if by apologizing, even when we genuinely believe that we are not at fault, we have somehow weakened ourselves in the context of power within the relationship. The converse is also true. A fleeting, disingenuous "Sorry" can exacerbate a situation and increase the receiving person's anger. Sometimes apologizing for hurting someone's feelings, hitting below the belt, or going to areas where your partner or friend is absolutely sensitive, while acknowledging that you have to agree to disagree on the merits of the argument, is the best that you can do. However, a little less pride and a little more willingness to be the first one to to take some responsibility for the disagreement will go a long way to ensuring that the love and affection that you have for your partner or friend will endure. So don't be afraid to sincerely apologize, even when you are in the right!
In the long run, it might just be the smart thing to do.
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