Apologizing
February 12th, 2008 by insighter
Why is it such a big deal to apologize?
Most of us have made mistakes that we could not hide from - we knew we were wrong and we knew the only right thing to do was to apologize and, if possible, to undo any damage caused. I think most people practice this in their personal lives - or at least one hopes. So when I observe what nations do to each other or even to their own people and are unable and, at times, unwilling to apologize for wrong doing, I just don’t comprehend. Apparently their reason to not apologize is so that we are not accountable for other past, present or future wrong doings! ? Something tells me that we don’t plan on doing things right…
The US has been one of the many countries who has been unwilling to recognize its wrongs - past and especially present.
Australia’s decision to apologize to the aborigines and in particular to its Stolen Generations, deserves mass applause. Unfortunately, the decision did not have many supporters in goverment but nevertheless it’s a step forward…and it makes for one reason to be hopeful.
Meet the new (as of late 2007) Australian Primer Minister Kevin Rudd making history!
No, I don’t think the Prime Minister’s apology erases the damage already done but it says “we are finally willing to move forward and start treating you justly” and that’s what really matters. Will other countries follow? Will the US (who everyone is watching)? With the right leader we could. Australia seems to be going in a great new direction and I’m exciting for them.
It feels great to see some signs of decent humanity again! One that respects differences and does not try to conquer or rule others, or pretend to be superior…in any way.