Tuesday, 14 January 2025

Recipe for the Perfect Apology by Clare Martin, a comforting cup of tea

Ingredients

·         Details of the incident

·         An exact recollection of words used. Note: These must not be blanched, minced, shredded or coated in sugar, or the flavour will be completely ruined.

·         Understanding the impact of the incident.  Exact quantities are essential. Do not estimate, and ensure you use appropriate measures. If in doubt seek advice elsewhere before preparing the apology.

·         Promises, for decoration (optional extra)

Method

Prepare your work area. Make sure you have cleared away any leftovers from previous apologies to ensure no cross-contamination.

Assemble everything you need. Consult your list to make sure nothing is left out and that all ingredients, especially your words, are carefully weighed.

Invite the injured person into the work area and make sure they are comfortable.

Make a clean breast of the issue and carefully blend all the ingredients. Note: It is essential to do this in the right order or the apology will curdle and be unpalatable.

Garnish with promises to learn from the incident and do better next time. Note: This step is optional. Sometimes an apology is best served plain to allow the full flavour to come through.

Serve with affection.

An apology is best served immediately. Never reheat an apology.

About the author 

Clare Martin is a writer with a background in radio journalism. Based in Sussex, England, she specialises in flash fiction and short stories. Writing about what lies under the surface of ordinary life, she draws inspiration from overheard conversations and the tales we tell ourselves. 

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