How to Tell If an Apology Is Valid

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“Don’t make excuses, make good.” —Elbert Hubbard

WHO OR WHAT DOES THE APOLOGY SERVE

1. An apology can be given only to alleviate the conscience of the one apologizing. This serves conscience.
2. An apology can be given only to alleviate some conflict or to escape some negative attention. This serves to escape a problem.
3. An apology can be given only as a way to prove that the person is better than what they did. This serves ego.
4. An apology can be given only as a way to prove that the person is too good to be held accountable. This serves high self-esteem.
5. An apology can be given as a way to show care and concern. This serves kindness.
6. An apology can be given as a way to correct the problem. This serves maturity, personal integrity, and responsibility.

SIMPLE ANSWER

• If the apology does not promise a specific way to make amends, correct, or make up for the problem, then the apology is serving the apologizer and not the one being apologized to.

Related Pages

• Coping Issues: Forgiveness Requires Forgiveness
• Quotations: Forgiveness Increases Compassion
• Scripture: Forgiveness