Day 963

Everyone has moments in life when they suddenly realize they have made a mistake. Typically, there is a sudden intake of breath, an unanticipated pit in your stomach and a feeling of regret. I most certainly had that experience today!

One of my sweetest residents offered me a special gift last week. There was a display of lighted Christmas homes on a shelf. This little lady wanted them to go to good homes because she decided she was done with them. My dear friend offered me one of her treasures. This morning, she had requested that someone wrap it up and she pointed to the crèche scene waiting for me by the doorway to her room. I thanked her profusely and told her I would pick it up after visiting other friends. After a quick hug, Ranger and I were on our way to the next resident. Later, at lunch, it suddenly hit me that I had TOTALLY forgotten to stop by to pick up her precious gift! I felt horrible!

I jumped back into my car, picked up a bouquet of flowers and headed back to Norbella with my head hanging low! My most gracious friend told me she knew I hadn’t forgotten and she was excited to see me twice in the same day! What an amazing woman!

When we make mistakes, it’s one thing when it affects only ourselves, but sometimes we affect those around us. In the first instance, we learn a lesson. In the second, we must own up to that mistake and try to “right the wrong.” Whether we beg forgiveness, rectify our mistake or simply apologize, our hearts are lightened when we are forgiven.

So, if we are looking to apologize, or we are the ones who have been wronged, it seems like a win-win to make everything alright once again! You will sleep better… I know I always do!