I witnessed an amazing event. Two lawyers were negotiating a settlement in a divorce matter. In the ensuing discourse, one of the attorneys unintentionally offended the other. Once the offense became palpable, all hopes of settlement were dashed. The lines of communication were severed. Then it happened. Quite by surprise. “I’m sorry“, pronounced the offending
advocate.

The case settled. The parties were given the best chance possible to raise their children in a functional, appropriate manner. Something very important, very special became clear to me. It is this: the words “I’m sorry” are powerful enough to heal relationships. Related to this phrase is another, “thank you”. With these phrases in his or her vocabulary, a lawyer can do the work that is most satisfying–to help others solve their problems.