If anything I have said or done 

has offended you, 

please forgive me.”

 Wow!

How many of us have the strength of character—not to mention the courage—to look another person in the eye and say the above? The simplicity of the words notwithstanding, it is incredibly personal. A person sincere in what they say, including an apology, will do so while looking unguardedly at the other person in the eye.

Sounds daunting?

Okay, perhaps before you ponder its significance, picture being on the receiving side of this apology. “If anything I have said or done has offended you, please forgive me.” Imagine how blown away you’d be!

Your petty resentments just dissolve into nothingness.

Your pent-up irritation. Poof!

Your anger? Gone.

Who can stay angry at someone who so honestly—and humbly—wants to apologize? Impossible! This is the power of an apology sincerely meant and humbly given.