Most of us have them: a family member, neighbour or friend that exited our lives negatively. We cross the street to avoid them. Clearly the situation still eats away at us but it’s tough to let it go. The good news? It’s not too late to repair a broken connection.
Practice forgiveness
If you feel that somebody did you wrong, try being the bigger person. T.V. talk show host Dr. Phil says, “This situation needs a hero.” Remaining stuck in victimization only prolongs the problem. Would it kill you to bend — just a little? Look inside your heart and try to let it go. Was the situation so bad that you would go the rest of your life without ever speaking to that person again? Or was it just your ego that got hurt? Maybe enough time has passed that it isn’t as fresh and you can put your pride aside to reach out. This is your chance to express yourself and be the bigger person. Many people are receptive to resolving conflict once enough time has passed. You could make out with the relationship mended or at the very least, feel better knowing that you tried.
Be willing to apologize
If you are the one who wronged somebody else and your guilt or shame over the situation has gotten the better of you, consider admitting your trespasses. The weight of hurting somebody else is heavy. Contact them in person, in writing, or over the phone and offer a simple “I’m sorry for…” It isn’t the other person’s job to forgive you but it will likely feel much better in your world for trying. It could be all that is needed to set things straight and repair the damage.
Don’t live with regret
For children, days and months pass slowly. The older we get, the faster time flies. Life is short. That saying rings the loudest after the loss of a loved one. The apology you thought about sending might just be too late if you continue to wait. Seize the day, the sooner the better; now is the best time to remedy the broken connections in your life.
Humans are social creatures. We need the company of others to feel good about ourselves and the world around us. Don’t spend another day being estranged from someone you care about. The relief you feel from mending fences will be immense.