How to Apologize

First
Set down your shield

If your sword is nearby
throw that as far away as you can

Now get low to the ground

Listen

Not just with your ears

Listen with your eyes
and your skin
and your organs
As if you are about to pet a wild rabbit

Breathe

Listen some more

Now look in the eyes
of the wounded

This will be hard

Now you can speak

Say, thank you for telling me
You are brave, my darling
I am so sorry that I harmed you

You have a right to your pain

I hope you will forgive me
I promise I will be a student of this moment
I will strive to be better
Please be patient
I’m human

And then be quiet and still