Beneficial_Donut_998 t1_iyf3vwe wrote
That's how it has to be: you have the authority to apologize to someone, but they have no obligation to accept. Perception is reality, and even if you know you did nothing wrong, you must respect a person's reaction to your apology. You responded correctly, and it's a valuable lesson for the future. When we make a mistake, we often have no choice but to apologize. After that, you just have to keep going, confident that you've done everything you can.
No_End_4050 t1_iyf5wcr wrote
Well said. I started this thread because a good friend of mine did not accept a sincere apology I gave them after behaving badly (nothing crazy, I was just being an asshole one night).
While I don't expect acceptance of an apology as a matter of course, it was jarring to hear them say "I do not accept your apology" insofar as it implies an apology is not enough to mend the rift between us.
I suppose I assumed friendship was unconditional to a degree - but I crossed the line for them it seems.
While I don't fault my friend for refusing my apology, the fact they refused it has major implications for our relationship imo. If an apology isn't enough, then I assume they expect me to maintain radio silence for a few weeks, change my behavior, and then reach back out once I'm more agreeable for them?
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