One of the keys to effective communication is knowing how and when to say “I’m sorry”. To be able to know the difference between saying, “I’m sorry” versus asking for forgiveness. And how a quality repair can really benefit your relationship.

And even with all of the great work that folks can do around apologies, there is one point of misunderstanding/frustration that tends to arise. It’s that an apology doesn’t erase the pain of the experience.

I think intellectually this makes sense, but in the moment it can be really hard to say you’re sorry and not have that pain or hurt instantly removed from the history of your relationship.

The truth is, wounds do heal and pain does lessen, but it takes time. It takes patience and a lot of humility to walk through forgiveness. And if you bring an air of entitlement or a sense of urgency with your apology, it will not help the situation. This I promise you.

My encouragement to you this week is to remember that saying you’re sorry, doesn’t erase the pain. Be patient. Wounds will heal.

Work to make quality repairs AND know that wounds will heal…it just takes time and nurturance to ease the pain. The two of you will get to the other side of hurt…I know it. And don’t forget to reach out if I can be of help along the way.

Yours truly,

-A