If We Hurt Others, What Can We Say?

I care very much about your feelings. Please tell me how I hurt you.

I get it, that makes sense. You are right to feel that way. I'm sorry, please forgive me.

Healing words are vital for healthy connections, and accompanying actions are just as important.

I will do my best not to do that again.

Please tell me what you'd like me to say or do differently.

Tell me what you need.

From now on, if I say or do anything else that is hurtful, please let me know. I can apologize.

We need to remember that our words will ring hollow if they are not followed by a change in our actions. We can demonstrate a willingness to say and do different things that are important to others, even though they may feel strange or inconvenient to us.

Perhaps our efforts might be appreciated. We can be rewarded with a warm and grateful response. However, if this doesn't happen, we can resolve to continue anyway. We can trust that we are planting seeds of kindness that will take root.