by Father Terrence P. Ryan, CSP
March 3, 2014

Did you ever mess up by what you say or do and really hurt someone’s feelings, someone who cares for you? What to do? First, admit you messed up. Don’t try and ego weasel your way out. Say you are sorry. Apologize. Your friend still is hurting, right? Yes, if you really messed up. Finally, ask them to “Pray for me.” You need prayer so you don’t act so much like a heartless jerk in the future.  You need grace. But also, I have found it easier to move to forgiveness if I am praying for someone. Not only do you benefit from their prayer, but so does the friend you hurt. That may be the best gift you can give them after your mess.