I've heard the saying "Love means never having to say you're sorry." What a bunch of bull! I'm sorry to tell you this, but love DOES mean saying you're sorry. And you'll probably have to say it a lot!

Never hesitate to admit you were wrong and never be embarrassed for saying you're sorry. You apologize because you want to relieve the pain you've caused that person and/or a desire to restore your relationship. Always be sincere and don't apologize for the wrong reasons - like trying to avoid punishment or just because you want to clear your conscience.

Saying sorry can be very humbling. Sometimes it's because you have to admit you did something stupid. But that's the real power behind apologizing. Being able to admit you're not perfect is the first step in building a relationship and maintaining mutual respect for each other.

Think about it. Let's say you're hurt by someone you love. They forgot your birthday, for example. You could confront them and demand an apology, but should you really have to? Your loved one should come out and sincerely apologize without you having to say anything. If they don't apologize, then they are either going to live with the guilt or they believe that it's not required. Remember the saying "Love means never having to say you're sorry."? See how ridiculous this sounds now? Never apologizing really means you have no respect for each other's feelings.

Of course, apologizing too much is not good either. Either something is very wrong in the relationship or you're going to have to learn to live with each other's faults. That's your call.

But generally, accepting each other faults is a big part of a loving and enjoyable relationship. The occasional lapse of responsibility or poor judgement is also part of it and being able to ask for and give forgiveness can only strenghten the bonds of a healthy relationship.