Olive Branches and Apologies

The term "to extend an olive branch" means to make an offer of peace or reconciliation. This term has Biblical origins, coming from the section of the Old Testament that deals with the flood; the sign that the flood is over is an olive branch brought back to the ark by a dove. Olive branches were also symbols of peace in Ancient Greece and Rome, and they continue to be used in various works of art that are meant to suggest peace, from murals to patches. Some people have suggested that the olive was a very deliberate and well-considered choice as a metaphor for peace, because olive trees famously take years to mature. War is typically very hard on the trees because people cannot take the time to nurture them and plant new ones. Therefore, the offer of an olive branch would suggest that someone is tired of war, whether it be an actual war or a falling out between friends. At some point in their lives, many people will be advised to extend an olive branch to settle a dispute or resolve an issue. Some people believe that it takes an immense amount of courage to take this action, as it often comes with an admission of wrongdoing and regret. When an olive branch is offered with ulterior motives or conditions, such as trying to get someone else to admit that he or she was wrong, the attempt at reconciliation often goes awry, and this is a very important thing to remember.  An olive branch extended with conditions is like a disingenuous apology.  Tendering a genuine apology when an apology is due can go a long way to repair a disconnection following a fight.  A true apology needs to be sincere. A true apology does not include the word “but” (“I’m sorry, but …”).  “But” automatically cancels out an apology, and nearly always introduces a criticism or excuse. A true apology keeps the focus on your actions—and not on others.  Own your behavior and apologize for it—period.  (**These are not bana's words, rather words she found **)  For those who find time to read, she thanks you and wishes you well.