The Weight of Glory – C. S. Lewis (1980)
This I would take one step further in that it also does not always mean forgetting either.
We teach children that when they have done something that has offended another person, or are the cause of something that they will receive instant forgiveness if they not only own-up but also say that they are sorry.
The definition of the word sorry is that there is the feeling of regret or remorse for what was done or said behind offering the word. There should be a sentiment of being ashamed about what was done, of being unhappy about the reaction that was caused, and regret at what was done or said that caused hurt and upset. However, I think that all too often the use of the word sorry has become the by-word for the expectation that it will excuse every action and/or deed, especially when it is a cold response without any remorse.
All too often the word sorry is coupled with but … ‘I’m sorry I cheated on you but I was lonely and you were away a lot’ ‘I’m sorry I lost my keys but I knew you had another set so it’s okay’ … and so on. The combination of sorry plus the justifying word but denotes that although forgiveness is the issue the circumstances surrounding the regret somehow vilifies the need, as if the excuse outweighs the need for any forgiveness.
That said, naturally, there will always be some things that the act of simply uttering the word sorry will never be enough … no matter how much sincerity is afforded it.