I never got out and gave a hug

I sat in the car and then it hit me… I never got out and gave a hug.

As I drove off my heart sank. I realized I had messed up. You see, my son’s love language is hugs. It would have meant a lot to him.

As I negotiated the traffic thoughts crashed around my mind.

What did I just model?

Oh boy, I stuffed that up

Apologize.

That is humbling.

It was a small mistake.

He knows I love him.

What will my wife think?

No need to tell her.

I can call and apologize.

That is awkward.

It’s not a big thing.

Wait, this could be an even bigger lesson for him.

Apologizing and show humble care.

That is a bigger lesson!

But, it’s not such a big thing...

I can’t ignore this..

So I stopped a street before home and dialled

I’m sorry

It came out awkwardly

I did not make the effort to get out and hug

He was very gracious

Relief

He felt more loved, he saw how much I valued our relationship

Our connection deepened

Phewww

After the call, I thought about times I messed up in business. When my disorganization negatively impacted my staff. I did my obligation but I did not treat people as well as I could have.

It was hard to say sorry then too. But it restored. They stayed. They were more committed. I improved.

Apologies as a leader, parent, or spouse are not easy.

But when done genuinely they take relationships a whole lot deeper.

Happy Valentines!

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I think these moments are what make relationships really meaningful.

When have you been humble, apologized, and seen how impactful it is?

When have you regretted not reaching out?

Let's collect in the comments staff, family, and friend stories that will inspire and warn us all to choose the harder but better road.

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