Instead of “Sorry” say “Thank you”

Growing up, I knew my place in the world. I said please and thank you, and I apologized for any possible misstep.

Walking through a grocery store, my mom would pull me to the side to let other people pass. As I stepped out of the way, I would lower my head and say, "Sorry."

I didn't want to be a burden. I didn't want to be an inconvenience. I was taught to not take up space.

"Sorry" was my go-to response in many situations.

• Sharing tight public spaces and trying not to bump into someone: Sorry.

• Making a phone call: Sorry to bother you.

• Needing a ride home: Sorry you had to go out of your way.

• Causing someone to wait for me: Sorry I took so long.

• Showing up late: Sorry I was late.

• Not having the answer to a question: Sorry, I don’t know.

• Tears rising unexpectedly during a conversation: Sorry that I’m crying.

Recently, my daughter and I were talking about social interactions, and we began exploring the energetics behind our responses.  Specifically, we talked about empty apologies that are unnecessary.