Today I brought my mom to have her hearing aids cleaned and checked. As we were waiting, other people were checking in for their appointments. One person was getting rather frustrated, though I didn’t hear exactly what was being said. A few minutes later, I heard the person say to the worker, “I’m sorry I was so short with you. I know you are just doing your job. I was just frustrated.” Those words brought a cumulative sigh of relief. When conversations get heated, it really affects everyone in the area. People feel uncomfortable or even fearful. An apology can immediately de-escalate a potentially volatile situation and bring calm. I thought the person was being very aware of themselves and those around them as they chose the path of peace instead of more upset. Everyone who was paying attention to the scene was grateful as well.
I Found God today in a public apology.