More wisdom from J. Augustine Wetta, O.S.B.

Never water down an apology with an excuse. If you’ve done wrong, own up to it. In fact, even if you haven’t done wrong, find a way to make amends. Throw yourself on the floor and beg for a blessing. Then let the whole thing go.

—J. AUGUSTINE WETTA, O.S.B. from Humility Rules: Saint Benedict's Twelve-Step Guide to Genuine Self-Esteem