This raises more questions than answers. For some folks, it is very difficult to 'apologize' especially when they haven't done or said anything wrong. That is, according to their points of view. But what if those views aren't shared with others? I’m not talking about the times when you slip and unintentionally say or do something that may be hurtful to the other individual. In these cases, you say I’m sorry, move on and hopefully they will too. I’m talking about the times where in the deepest depths of your soul, you truly unequivocally believe you are right but the other person digs in his/her heels and places a big, fat STOP sign in front of your face in defiance.

Let’s say that ninety percent of the population agrees with you and backs you up. You probably feel justified in maintaining your stance. He/she feels justified in their stance. So where and when does it end? It has now turned into a power struggle. Is it worth it? Ask anyone who has gone through the pain of divorce. I’m not saying that it’s as simple as saying “I’m sorry” and magically all wrongs are made right, but it is a start. If you’ve heard of the adage – ‘Pride goeth before a fall’ it explains a lot. Prisons are full of pride, workplaces are crawling with it, entire civilizations have been led by this same arrogance, smugness and air of self-importance. There is no honor among thieves, you can’t no matter how hard you try, base your own happiness on the unhappiness of another, and you will be unable to live your entire existence without feeling some sort of retribution. Remember too, that the sins of the father will be visited upon the children.

I believe that much can be averted, calmed and soothed by simply voicing … ‘I’m sorry.’ There is no need for either gender to stubbornly cling to their opposing views. If they haven’t gotten you very far until now, chances are they’re not going to take you anywhere moving forward. What they both should do is realize that there is no need, let alone no room, for a power struggle in any relationship. As thorny as it may feel at the time, I promise that as you age, so will your opinions. You and your views may not separate completely but both will mellow until it won’t be as close to impossible to apologize regardless of circumstance. It won’t be at all challenging to be cut off by an errant driver and not feel compelled to adjust their behavior by showing them a well timed appendage. In the final analysis, when all is said and done, more has been said and done to outdo the other person than to bring everyone closer. So, what was the point in the first place? It took eons but it’s finally hitting home that humans cannot continue to abuse the earth and expect it to continue producing untold bounties. Suddenly, everyone has decided to go ‘green’. As far as relationships are concerned, maybe it’s time to invite a little maturity into them so that when there is a disagreement or difference of opinion, it won’t be so problematic to clear the way possibly avoiding hurt, anger and resentment.

Is it difficult for me to say I’m sorry? Nope. Simplistic? Possibly, but it works for me.