What did you mean to say?
Apologies over what we said usually indicate that what we said, the words we used did not gain favor with those to whom we were speaking.
Rarely does it mean, at least in America, that we are truly sorry.
But what do we mean when we say, “That’s not what I mean to say?” if we are truly sincere?
What words would we choose if we gained the opportunity to turn the clock back and speak again, with no one having any memory of us using the inappropriate words that caused time to go back?
What would we say if we had a moment to hear what our words would sound like before others heard them?
What if we took a minute to tease out what we actually are trying the say, unloosen the words that get caught somewhere between our heart and our brain, better yet, lie tangled in the web of our vulnerabilities and fears rising from the truth that we are not omnipotent and actually possess an Achilles Heel …or two?
I requires a lot of strength to open a sentence with “I think…” better yet, “I feel…” and even more strength to state the nature of our hurt or pain in the words that follow.
Perhaps if we did more of this, spoke more honestly many of us would have less for which to apologize, ever how insincere, and we would have stated exactly what we meant.
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How often do you say what you express your feelings of hurt without attacking another?
How often does the anger you feel shape the words you speak?
How often do you wish for a second opportunity to say state your opinion, but do know how to begin, or what to say?
How often have you heard how your words really sound and what they actually do say about you?