The first to apologize is the bravest. The first to forgive is the strongest. And the first to learn from it and move on is the happiest. (Source unknown)
That’s quite a loaded three-part idea, isn’t it? Apologizing is often difficult; it requires humility to admit you’ve been wrong. To do so takes courage. Forgiving may be even harder, especially if you’ve been deeply hurt. That requires great inner strength. But learning these lessons can not only restore broken relationships and give you a sense of freedom and relief, but it can produce a joy that you cannot experience without apology and forgiveness.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God (Matthew 5:9).