How do I apologise to a friend I let down?
An apology to a friend can turn into an explanation of why it happened. Naming what you did, and that it mattered, is what lets them hear it.
Tonecraft lets you rehearse it first. Describe what is happening, choose gentle, direct or firm, and walk through six turns. At each turn you see three ways they might answer.
Three ways to open
Gentle
I've been thinking about your moving day. I said I'd be there and I wasn't. I'm sorry. You were counting on me.
Direct
I let you down on your moving day. I said I'd help and I didn't show up. I'm sorry.
Firm
I didn't show up for your moving day after I said I would. That was wrong, and I'm sorry.
What to expect
Three ways they might answer. Each is plausible, not a prediction of what they will say.
Hears you out
Thank you. It did hurt that you weren't there.
Pushes back
You always say sorry and then do it again.
Brushes it off
Don't worry about it. It's done.
A message to send after
Edit it to fit, then send it yourself
Rehearse this with your details
I wanted to say it once more. I'm sorry I wasn't there for your move. You don't need to answer this.
Your first five rehearsals are free. No card needed.