The Chronicles

Volume 9- Hard To Say I’m Sorry

I’m Sorry. It’s just two words. But there they stand. Tall. Powerful. And able to save your relationship….if you use them the right way.

Today’s lesson: apology etiquette. It’s time I revealed the three key elements when apologizing to that special someone.

Now this may require taking some notes.

Why You Should Do It

We all mess up…that’s just a fact of life. But it takes a mature person to acknowledge and recognize their mistakes…especially in a relationship. Look at some of the world’s most powerful couples. I guarantee you’ll find with them a willingness to admit when they are wrong and the ability to say I’m sorry. Examine the facts: Will and Jada. Tom and Katie. Beyonce and Jay-Z. Aretha and KFC. All have a mutual respect for their partner and understand the value in saying I’m sorry. Learn from their examples…

When You Should Do it

Have you ever been so tired of arguing, that you just said I’m sorry and took the blame just to get the fight over with. I’m guilty of that transgression as well, but have come to learn a better course of action. Try to avoid apologizing unless you really mean it. By glossing over the problem, you’re just asking for them to return at a later date. Unaddressed issues keep coming back like those roaches at your nasty aunt’s house. (You know which aunt I’m talking about. She hasn’t cleaned her house good since Lionel Ritchie was still with the Commodores.) If you have to do anything to keep the peace, apologize for having the fight in the first place. Now that’s mature..and very honest.

How You Should Do It

How you apologize depends on what you did. Now if you scratched her favorite New Edition cd, then a heartfelt apology and nice foot massage may do the trick. But if you got caught fooling around with her best friend after driving the getaway car for Eddie Murphy as he eluded Scary Spice’s paternity test, then you might need to do something a little more grand. Something that says, I know I’m a dummy, but if you can find it in your heart to forgive me, then I’ll be a changed person. We’re really going to have to brainstorm on that one for you. (By the way…did Eddie tell you if that was his baby or not?)

The Fly Guy Moral: If it’s really worth it, then you’ll find a way to make things right. There’s nothing worse than losing someone over stubbornness. Trust me I know.