It is sometimes as easy to say as \u201cpass the salt and pepper.\u201d
Not much harder than \u201cexcuse me\u201d or \u201cyou\u2019re first.\u201d
Just another daily transaction, a dab of social lubricant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sometimes though, the words catch in the throat.
Muscles tighten in the neck to hold them in.
Resentment might narrow the eyes slightly as the fingers clench.
\u201cI will not apologize for anything!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sometimes the body stiffens and the eyes widen.
A fluttery stomach churns acidic discomfort.
Freeze or run are the conflicting impulses confusing the legs and feet.
\u201cI want to be anywhere but here!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So simple to say \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d
What a relief to confess one\u2019s actions and remorse.
What closure to make amends and restitution.
To put an end to it \u2026 and to return to love \u2026 again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why don\u2019t we say I\u2019m sorry more often?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(c) Sam Trumbore (2020)<\/p>\n\n\n\n