The other day, I caught myself saying it again. It just comes tumbling out of my mouth before my brain can even process what I’m saying. It’s so habitual…and I’m pretty sure I’ve been saying it for as long as I can remember. I am constantly apologizing for existing in the same space as someone else.

Let me explain…

I round a corner at work, and someone is walking in the opposite direction. I apologize.

I’m washing a dish in the work kitchen, and someone comes up and is waiting for the sink. I apologize.

I go to open a door and someone is on the other side wanting to walk in. I apologize.

Now I’m not saying that apologies shouldn’t happen. BECAUSE THEY ABSOLUTELY SHOULD. I think if more people could be good at apologizing, the world would be a better, kinder place.

What I’m saying is why am I apologizing for my existence in a particular space. Especially when I haven’t done anything wrong? Maybe “excuse me” would be a more appropriate thing to say in these situations. But “I’m sorry” just seems wrong. I’m not sorry for existing.

I’m not sorry for trying to open a door that you are on the other side of from me. I’m not sorry for having walked slightly in the same direction as you. Somebody start holding me accountable. Ok, blog. You can hold me accountable.