We are a commune of inquiring, skeptical, politically centrist, capitalist, anglophile, traditionalist New England Yankee humans, humanoids, and animals with many interests beyond and above politics. Each of us has had a high-school education (or GED), but all had ADD so didn't pay attention very well, especially the dogs. Each one of us does "try my best to be just like I am," and none of us enjoys working for others, including for Maggie, from whom we receive neither a nickel nor a dime. Freedom from nags, cranks, government, do-gooders, control-freaks and idiots is all that we ask for.
There is a luxury in self-reproach. When we blame ourselves, we feel that no one else has a right to blame us. It is the confession, not the priest, that gives us absolution.
On the other hand, a superficial apology delivered by someone who clearly has not taken to heart the wrongness of what he did, and who therefore exhibits no credible remorse, is rightfully scorned by everyone who hears it. And the apology is important if the wrongdoing and the wronged are to move on.
I have seen this unattractive habit in myself and my own son practices it only too much. I am sometimes my own toughest critic in hopes I can be my only critic.