They are powerful words. Words that can untangle some of the messiest, wildest tangled up knots. Words that can release one from the captivity of guilt and be the catalyst of healing. Words that are some of the hardest syllabus to utter. Fear doesn't like these words.
{ I'm sorry. }
And here's why fear doesn't like them.
1. It's vulnerable. It's open. It's risky. Fear says to keep yourself safe and protected and walled up so you won't get hurt. Fear says to let someone else take the first step.
2. These words admit fault. Saying them indicates that you claim responsibility. Fear says to pretend you know what you're doing- to pass blame on another when something goes awry.
3. Not everyone will appreciate the bravery of these words. They are not guaranteed to be followed with forgiveness. They may be perceived as weak.
4. They must be said with sincerity. Fear doesn't value genuine or heartfelt. Fear keeps things light, on the surface.
Saying "I'm sorry" is truly powerful when it's offered with a sincere and repentant heart. It's transformative because of how it takes initiative without assurance of how the other person will receive it. It's easier to be stubborn. It feels better to be stubborn. These are some of the least offered words because they are just plain hard. Saying "I'm sorry" means swallowing the urge to explain or defend oneself. It's simple, it's raw, it's honest. It lets go of the need to see immediate justice because it waits hopefully on the One who will one day make all things right.
These 2 words diffuse anger. They take the 1st step to start a trajectory toward restoration. They indicate a bold letting go of the need to prove and defend self. They indicate bold maturity. Bold contentedness with self and bold leaning on the One who ultimately restores.
When was the last time you exhibited this kind of bold?
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