If you’ve had any conversation of significance with me in the last two years, you know I am a huge fan of the Canadian mystery writer, Louise Penny, author of the Inspector Gamache series.
From the first book in the series, Still Life, Chief Inspector Armand Gamache tells the detectives under his supervision there are four saying that lead to wisdom. They are:
- I was wrong
- I’m sorry
- I don’t know
- I need help
Seems to me these four statements are the underpinnings of quality relationships and great customer service, no matter what business you might be in. Ultimately, much about our relationships – personal or business – depends our our willingness to admit to being human.
Why is it sometimes so hard to say, “I was wrong”?
When did it become a sign of weakness to say, “I don’t know,” or “I need help”?
And what healing could come if we all had the courage just to say, “I’m sorry”?
I read a post recently that said we must learn to accept the apology we never received. I think we must also learn to give the apology that might never be accepted. I’ve begun, in my morning meditation, to offer forgiveness and/or apology to those I may never see or hear from again. In the end, the one we must forgive, and the one to whom we must apologize, is ourselves.
I’ve been wrong. I’m often sorry. There are many things I don’t know, and many times I need help.
How about you?