How to Use Power Phrases

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18

When You Really

Blew It

PowerPhrases to Apologize

Sincerely without Groveling

Recently a man named Tony Graves was sentenced to life in
prison in Fort Collins, Colorado, for a string of assaults. At the
hearing, many of his victims and their families expressed their
anger in words filled with venom. They were very specific about
the horrors they hoped Tony would experience in prison. I was
struck by Tony’s response. He said:

The past is unchangeable. If it makes anyone feel bet-

ter, all the things the victims wish for me will probably

come true. All the anger and hate, I understand that.

Give it all to me. But don’t let it affect you.

If there were any right words for a time like that, those were the
words. Understandably, however, the victims were unimpressed.

Copyright © 2004 by Meryl Runion. Click here for terms of use.