When is National Reconciliation Day?
April 2nd is National Reconciliation Day.
What is National Reconciliation Day?
If your tomfoolery made an enemy on April Fool’s Day, April 2nd is the day to say sorry. National Reconciliation Day celebrates peace by urging us to make amends and restore damaged relationships.
Sticks and stones may break my bones, but sometimes words can hurt a lot worse. People misunderstand each other and speak out in anger. It’s human, so it’s understandable, but we still have an obligation to reconcile. We may have to initiate the ceasefire even when we’re the injured party. It’s worth it though.
There’s no price tag for harmony. The benefits are incalculable, and National Reconciliation Day is a reminder to apologize and forgive, to restore our friendships for their own sakes.
Fun facts about National Reconciliation Day!
- Ann Landers started National Reconciliation Day in 1989 as a way of inspiring her readers to heal damaged relationships.
- Genuine and detailed apologies are powerful. Not only do they show someone else that we are sorry, but they promote constructive remorse in our own mind.
- Reluctant or ambiguous apologies often do more damage than good.
- Explaining to the person that you understand how your wrongdoing hurt them can demonstrate the sincerity of your apology.
How to celebrate National Reconciliation Day:
Start the reconciliation. Call them, meet with them, or write them a humble letter. Whether it’s your spouse or child, brother or mother, friend or coworker, begin what is certainly a worthwhile process. It may take some creativity, but it’s never too late.
What’s the hashtag for National Reconciliation Day?
Encourage your friends to join you by using #ReconciliationDay on social media.