There’s nothing quite like the emotional release in the wake of a genuine apology, for both parties…
Genuine apology is a key precept in Judaism. The Jewish faith dictates that, before Yom Kippur, one must offer a genuine apology to all those one knows one has harmed, lest one not be inscribed in G-d’s Book of Life (and be granted a happy new year).
I’m not sure how many of my co-religionists follow this precept any more; speaking for myself only, I know that I have failed in this respect many times, and I feel the guilt accordingly. The burden of guilt seems to grow worse as I get older.
I have found a worthy guide to making a real apology at http://www.myjewishlearning.com/ask_the_expert/at/Ask_the_Expert-Forgiveness.shtml. It applies not just to Jews, but to everyone.
