Have you ever said something you knew was hurtful, and then immediately regretted saying it? I’m guilty of that. Most of us probably have done it as well.

The damage was done, so don’t gloss over it, make excuses or deny it. Apologize. Immediately. The person you hurt might still be reeling from what was said, but if the apology was sincere they will know. And hopefully they will forgive and not try to “one up” by firing back at us.

Think before speaking. If what we are about to say is hurtful, let’s ask ourselves why we are saying it in the first place. Perhaps we are hurting from something and we want someone to feel our pain. It might be better to talk it through with a trusted friend.

What we say can never be taken back. Speak kindly or don’t speak at all…