They Say The First To Apologize Is The Bravest

Trump’s half apology is far too late.

From a very early age, I learned the value and importance of a sincere apology.

It’s important not just because it expresses regret for our words or actions; but more importantly, it symbolizes are willingness to declare our imperfection to the world. It is a statement of humility.

Whether you write a letter, leave a voicemail, or do it face-to-face, the most important element of an apology is it’s sincerity. When an apology is felt and expressed from the heart, it reveals — even for a moment — the depth of our character.

Character matters. It matters even more so at high levels of leadership. To my knowledge, this is the only public apology Mr. Trump has made in his entire career. I would further argue that this “apology” was given only to save his chances at winning the election. In other words, if the presidency was not at stake, this would’ve probably been shrugged off as Trump being Trump.

Except not this time. This time it cost him. It cost him more than any of his lavish, hyper-luxurious hotels. This time it cost him his reputation and perhaps even his legacy.

Mr. Trump had many opportunities to apologize. Indeed, he had many reasons to apologize for and many people to apologize to. But when you’re a tough New York billionaire, I guess some things are just beneath you.

“When you’re a star…you can do anything.”

No you can’t. You cannot grab women by their genitals at your convenience or commit adultery for your own pleasure. And you definitely cannot run for president just because you want to be the world’s greatest winner.

America is great, has been great, and will be great with or without Mr. Trump in the Whitehouse.