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Apology Quote by Jonathan Miles

“I'm not sure the word "sorry" does anything justice. It's such a loose word isn't it? I mean how can one puny word encompass all the stuff you did - But also the, all the things you didn't do? It's the inactions that keep people up at night. The actions, they're done. They're done. It's the…” quote by Jonathan Miles
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““I'm not sure the word "sorry" does anything justice. It's such a loose word isn't it? I mean how can one puny word encompass all the stuff you did - But also the, all the things you didn't do? It's the inactions that keep people up at night. The actions, they're done. They're done. It's the inactions that never go away. They just hang there. They ROT. How is sorry supposed to stretch across all that?””

Jonathan Miles

About This Quote

Source Interview: Podcast episode with Jonathan Miles, 2023

The speaker argues that the word “sorry” is insufficient to capture the full weight of both actions taken and missed opportunities, especially the lingering guilt of inaction.

In simple terms: Sorry can’t fully express all regrets.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge both actions and inactions.

Themes

regret communication guilt accountability

Mood

reflective somber thoughtful

Type

philosophical emotional

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • workplace apologies
  • public statements
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

psychology language limits moral responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you address regrets that words can’t cover?
  • Can you repair harm without saying sorry?
A Different Perspective

Words may fail to convey deep remorse; actions speak louder.

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