Admitting mistakes, sincerely saying sorry
We all make mistakes. Inadvertently, carelessly, out of hubris or neglect.
Mistakes are an opportunity to learn.
The infant figuring out how to walk learns from each fall, each wobbly step.
Our education and culture shames mistakes and shames the mistake maker.
Rarely do we find leaders able to stand up and say, “I screwed up.” “I made a mistake.” “I am sorry.”
Our legal code has become such that admitting an honest mistake, a mistake we made without purposeful intent, might come with litigation.
So we deflect. We deny. We lie.
And the cycle goes around.
If we want leadership that is able to stand in accountability for their mistakes then we must be the people who do not play the shame, litigation, blame game.
If the mistake, done without ill intent but also having tragic consequences, needs a higher order of justice for the mistake made, can we accept justice dispensed and forgive, or do we demand more, remaining forever vengeful?
If we want our leaders to sincerely say sorry, to take responsibility for mistakes made, we also need to be capable of forgiveness and acceptance.
Photo taken July 22nd 2021
