Picture the soul as a wide, sun-drenched field. The ego, a fortress on that field, resists every assault on its domain, stubborn as an old oak. Confronted with criticism, it slams the gates, preferring isolation over discomfort.

Yet, there’s a secret tunnel, a conduit to reconciliation. Its name: admitting fault. Here, we set aside our shields and arrows, wearing honesty like a cloak. “I was wrong,” we confess, words as potent as raindrops on parched soil.

Like an olive branch extended, “I was wrong” holds the power to mend fences. It’s not simply an expression of regret, but a profound admission of our shared humanity—a recognition that we all stumble on this rocky path called life. It’s a balm on wounds, a bond that binds us stronger than before. And, it’s a mighty step toward reconciliation.

Admitting fault, it turns out, is more than accepting blame. It’s a testament to our capacity to grow, a monument to our courage, a symbol of our shared journey. Yes, it can be a bitter pill, but in its aftertaste lies the sweet promise of understanding, growth, and connection.

Stephen Boudreau serves as VP of Brand and Community at Virtuous Software. For over two decades, he has helped nonprofits leverage the digital space to grow their impact. To that end, Stephen co-founded RaiseDonors, a platform that provides nonprofits with technology and experiences that remove barriers to successful online fundraising. He is an avid (but aging) soccer player, audiobook enthusiast, and the heavily-disputed UNO champion of his household.

Copyright ©2023 Stephen Boudreau.