“It takes a strong person to say sorry, and an even stronger person to forgive.”
Vanessa Guzman

We all make mistakes. It’s a simple truth; we cannot escape. Yet, when others wrong us, we are compelled to seek retribution. Justice is the only way. No one escapes the long arm of the law. That is until we find ourselves needing mercy for our actions, and we are left saying, “Sorry.” Perhaps now would be a good time for the law to have short arms.
The more I observe life, the deeper I understand everything is not “good” or “bad.” Although we are learning every day, for some of us, it takes years to realize our mistakes. As I approach my 50’s and look back at past years, I shake my head at “my stupidity.”
I have wronged many people. However, I have been the source of happiness for many people as well. It is why it is important not to dwell on the past and focus on the present.
If others wrong us, forgive. If we hurt others, apologize and mean it. There is nothing more shallow than a trifle, “sorry.” We are not judge and jury. To be human, we must first be humane.
Over the last month, a lot of us have found ourselves isolated. Not everyone has a house full of people. Some of us only have TV, radio, or social media to keep us company. In our downtime, thoughts drift in like a midnight fog. We are our worst critic, and with that in mind, grief and disappointment fill our hearts with regret. Without notice, we find ourselves lost in depression. Idle hands have nothing on the conviction of an idle mind.
Everyone has a moment of regret. It’s important to remember that the past has passed, and self-forgiveness leads to happiness. We are to hold ourselves accountable for our actions, not drag our soul through the mud.
Understanding the simple principle that we all err helps when we need to forgive others. After all, if we required forgiveness, we would want compassion and understanding to come with it.