An apology is not an apology
If it is forced,
Or “I am sorry I married you”
Before a divorce.
“You will not go out to play
Until you apologize.”
Followed by a terse “I am sorry.”
Not even disguised.
None of the foregoing three
Constitutes an apology,
Check them a little more carefully
And you would see.
People are made to apologize
Without seeing the need
But such is not an apology,
It is not indeed!
A heartfelt apology
Is where an apology is at,
Anything less is not an apology
And this is a fact.
There must be some remorse
And a little repentance too
Demonstrating that what was done
Was not a right thing do.
“I can’t tell you how sorry I am”
Sounds genuine enough
But study what is truly being said
And you’ll find it’s a bluff.
An apology must be uttered
But this person is saying I can’t,
Thus, I have no regard for this one,
You may take a different stance.
If you can’t, well go your way
And come back when you can,
If you can’t tell me how sorry you are
It is just a sham.
Or perhaps you can start
By saying how sorry you are
But “I can’t tell you how sorry I am”
Is off the mark by far.
Children are sometimes punished
Until they apologize,
A word to teachers and parents
This is not wise.
If a child renders an apology
Because he is punished
Then the true meaning of an apology
Is severely diminished.
It is a “no apology”
Meaning, it is just empty words
And if you are getting me
You will no doubt concur.
A genuine apology
Is like begging for forgiveness,
It comes out of a contrite heart
That regrets the mess.
“If you don’t apologize
You will be out of work,”
What a lovely apology I would offer!
Out of work really hurts.
Forced control is no control
Forced apology is just a fake,
Apology you want, apology you get,
Thanks for a way of escape.
It is a no apology
Any apology that is forced,
Hence, I am likely to do as you ask
If this is my only recourse.
Stewart Russell © August 25, 2023
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