Argument and debate are going to happen, even in the best of partnerships, but it doesn't have to mean doomsday or that you're not compatible. In fact, I have found some conflict can actually be a stepping stone to a more honest, intimate place and can foster better communication.

Making amends doesn't mean that I can have relationships with the people involved, it doesn't mean they will forgive me -- or that the process will be sufficient for them to forgive.

While I have never participated consistently in any form of organized Judaism, and while I cannot bring myself to believe in the magic of a "Book of Life" exactly, I am intrigued by Judaism's prescribed process for atonement.

How many times a day do you apologize? Think about it. Not a major, "I messed up" kind of acknowledgement, more of a figure of speech, a rationalization, an excuse. If you're like me, it happens often.

Given our propensity for hurting each other -- usually inadvertently through our clumsiness or our being inconsiderate -- getting good at apologizing should be standard-issue emotional equipment for membership in the human race. And it is. Any one can do it.

Mistakes are essential to your growth in life, if you recognize them and correct them. Do not fear them -- you need them.

Surely you have had someone give you a half-hearted apology that left you feeling cold inside. In fact, haven't you been the one giving that "I'm-kind-of-sort-of-sorry" apology yourself?

Can white people apologize on behalf of their ancestors for what was done to Native Americans a long, long time ago? Could a young German express deep regret for what his forefathers did to the Jews?

Are we in the wrong if we withhold forgiveness from someone who sincerely requests it? Not necessarily.

With Groundhog Day rapidly approaching, my mind has turned to the elusive do-over and the 1993 Bill Murray flick. When something in your life goes terribly wrong, it is possible to fix it.