The Two Hardest Words To Say

They are only two words, yet somehow most of us find it difficult to verbalize them. Why is it so hard to say, “I’m sorry?” It seems especially so when we need to say them to those that we love most.

When we fight with our family, loved ones, or friends, “I’m sorry” just doesn’t seem easy. We should know that these people will love us no matter what. So these three syllables should roll off the tongue. These people shouldn’t judge us or think of us differently, yet most people tend to speak those words less to them than they would to complete strangers.

I understand that most of us don’t like to be wrong, and by uttering these two words, we are in some way admitting that. No one goes around saying, “I want to be wrong.” The truth is, we just don’t want to be wrong. But really what’s wrong with being wrong? It only means we are human and can make mistakes just like everyone else. No one likes people who come off as perfect. Being fallible makes us destructible, vulnerable and even more likeable.

Many people don’t take responsibility and admit that they might have hurt another person’s feelings or offended her. No one likes her feelings hurt. Sometimes we just need the acknowledgement that’s what happened. But the quicker you want things back to way they once were, you need to take the time, be the bigger person and say, “I’m sorry.” It’s not a cakewalk, but think of the alternative.

It’s a pride thing, I know. But mastering the art of apologizing starts with setting your pride aside. Because if you don’t and the other person doesn’t either, it comes down to a pissing contest and just who can be more stubborn. Then days, weeks and maybe even years can go by without talking. Do you really want that to happen?

I’m not implying for you to apologize if you don’t mean it, because trust me, the other person will know. She will know if it’s genuine. Maybe you need to apologize for your tone, words or that you hurt her feelings, when you know that wasn’t your intention.

Those two words might be some of the hardest words that you utter, but they help with communication. They will take the stress and pressure off the other person and diffuse the situation. Once you do say, “I’m sorry,” be open to the receiver’s response. Maybe it will even allow the other person to see your side, but don’t say “I’m sorry” for any ulterior motive. Do it because you mean it. You just don’t know how it might affect the other person.

“I’m sorry” might be the two hardest words to say. It’s almost as though it actually takes something away from you to apologize. You somehow feel like you’re sacrificing part of yourself by doing it. Maybe it’s the pride you’re giving up or the notion of never being wrong.

Those words may make you feel an inch high when you’re speaking them. They force you to put your stubborn pride aside and admit that you were wrong. But those two words can form a stronger connection, open communication, and allow the love to grow. The more you say, “I’m sorry,” the easier it becomes, and the more respect you will have for yourself as an imperfect person. Soon they may be the easiest words you utter. So don’t be afraid to say “I’m sorry.” They might be the most important words you speak.