How to Be Less Human – A Turning Point For Compassion

The human race seems to have finally figured out how to be less likeable, but not everyone is on board with the new idea. For some, apologizing for your behavior is the new rage, while others are still holding onto the old idea that forgiveness is better than being sorry. Whether you think you should hold on to your old ways depends on your outlook on life and how accepting you are of others. Some would consider saying sorry a way of saying, “It’s not so much about what you did as it is about accepting your responsibility.” While this is an appealing view on life, some people are still holding on to the outdated “I didn’t do it so you don’t have to.”

I know of one particular case where an individual confronted another about his or her conduct and was surprised when the other individual responded by asking, “So, you apologize now or will you be sorry?” This person was quite taken aback by the question, and it is from this confrontation that many things about being a ‘human being’ became clearer. The individual who had asked the question had previously made several comments that undermined others in a way that made them feel less human. The question also served as a perfect opportunity for the speaker to communicate how he or she was going to change, and how they wanted to see other people respond to his or her behavior.

The speaker then began to apologize for previous statements and promises to be more accountable. The effect this had on the audience was amazing. One woman wrote to thank the person who had asked the question and she felt like she had been enlightened. How to be Less Human is a concept that has many facets, and if you are looking for a way to get more compassion, forgiveness, and kindness into your life, you should definitely consider trying to learn how to apologize. It can help you become a more compassionate person and open up to others, which can only improve your interactions with others.