Jews all over the world just completed the High Holy Days ending with Yom Kippur, a solemn day of atonement. A central obligation during this period is to reflect, acknowledge one’s shortfalls, and atone for them -- all as a prelude to a fresh commitment to be a better person and to lead a better life.

Atonement includes the duty to apologize to those injured by any moral shortcoming. Last year I saw a one-minute animated film on Aish.com about apologies. It struck me as profound. Here is the message:

For some people, an apology is always in the planning stages.
Others suppress an apology and can’t get it out.
Some people need to have an apology squeezed out of them.
For others, the apology is never whole.

Some people say "Sorry" so many times, it is hard to know when they mean it.
Others will never apologize until the other person apologizes.
Some people whisper so quietly, it is barely heard.
There are others who never think to ask for forgiveness.

For some people, "Sorry" is nothing but a game of words.
For others, their apology is part of a strategic plan.
Some people are separated by just one apology.
Others are reunited by just one apology.

For some, "Sorry" lifts their spirit and carries them far.
For others, it opens up locked doors.
"Sorry" clears the slate and creates a new beginning.

You don’t have to be Jewish to see the profound wisdom of sincere apologies to mend relationships and start anew.

Is there anyone you should be apologizing to, or is it time you accepted another’s apology? It may or may not change your life for the better, but it will make you better.

This is Michael Josephson reminding you that character counts.

*Bonus commentary this week!