Sisters and Brothers,
When is it a good time to say, "I'm sorry?" And more importantly, how is one supposed to make amends for mistakes they have made or things they have done that hurt a sister or brother?
Each Sunday we recite a (general) Confession. As many of you have pointed out, we change the Confession we use in worship on a regular basis. I do this because I am afraid that we might begin saying things by rote - not really thinking about the words - not really expressing true regret.
As Fr. Lee has reminded us, confession and expressing one's struggles is good for the soul. Sometimes we simply need to take the time to do the hard work of self-examination. Recognizing this, I have been going through a period of introspection lately. And even though I am tempted to pacify my conscience by assuring myself that my intentions were good, I have to be willing to be honest with myself. I simply have to stop and face the fact that I have caused hurt to people I love and respect.
And so, I want to admit that I recognize that some comments I have made and some things I have written have come across as being too harsh or insensitive. While I don't know how to make things right, I do feel the need to express to all of you, my sisters and brothers, that "I'm sorry; I apologize."
Personally, I've come to this awareness because two individuals that I respect have had the chutzpah to take me aside and talk to me privately. While it is never a pleasant experience to be confronted (even when it is done in love), it was helpful. Perhaps we should be willing to take this approach more often with one another. Now that is a radical concept!
Relationships can be so complicated - especially when we throw our own brokenness into the mix. But the truth is I packed it, so I guess I need to claim my own baggage! If you have felt hurt by anything I have said or done, I pray that you might consider forgiving me. And more importantly, I hope you might be willing give us a chance to find reconciliation.
Blessings!
Fr. Dewayne
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