Derech Eretz Corner: When RIGHT is WRONG

There is a joke that the three hardest things to say are:

I was wrong.

I need help.

Worcestershire sauce

It’s no joke. Admitting one is wrong can be embarrassing, humbling, and self effacing.

Yet, a “mensch” will do it when they realize they need to.

Stopping arguments and preserving friendships depends on one’s ability to admit fault.

Here’s a serious but kid-friendly poem about admitting when we are wrong:

It’s always quite hard to say,

“Oops! I was wrong today.”

The words feel heavy in my throat,

Like wearing 100 pound winter coat.

I want to say,“It wasn’t me!”

Or,“You just didn’t see!”

But deep inside, I know,

Only truth will help me grow.

Saying “sorry” isn’t small—

It’s brave, it’s strong, it’s the ONLY call.

It opens hearts and clears the air,

And shows the world you really care.

Mistakes can teach, if only we let;

Our ego step back and our hearts reset.

Because being wrong is not where it ends—

Friendships survive when we make amends.

Two very good questions to ask oneself before speaking:

1. Is what I’m about to say going to help or hurt?

2. Would I rather be right, or happy?