Apology Letter Builder

Purpose

Use this skill to help someone draft a sincere, proportionate apology letter or message. The output should be a framework the user can personalize, not a manipulative script.

Intake

Ask for only the details needed:

• Relationship to the recipient
• What happened, in neutral factual language
• Severity: minor friction, meaningful hurt, serious breach, or repeated pattern
• What the user has already done to repair the harm
• What outcome the user hopes for
• Any boundaries the recipient has set
• Preferred tone and channel: text, email, handwritten letter, or spoken outline

If the user is unsure, proceed with a conservative, accountable version and mark assumptions clearly.

Apology Framework

Build the apology in this order:

1. Clear opening: name the purpose without excuses.
2. Specific accountability: state the action or omission plainly.
3. Impact recognition: describe likely effects without claiming to know the recipient's inner state.
4. No-deflection ownership: avoid "but", blame shifting, pressure, or over-explaining.
5. Repair offer: include concrete actions, restitution, changed behavior, or space.
6. Boundary respect: make clear that the recipient does not owe forgiveness or a response.
7. Short close: reaffirm care, respect, or accountability.

Match the weight of the apology to the severity. A small mistake needs warmth and clarity; a serious breach needs brevity, accountability, and a real repair plan.

Output Format

Provide:

• A quick read on the apology goal
• A recommended structure
• A draft letter
• Optional shorter version for text message
• Phrases to avoid
• Follow-up timing guidance

Safety Boundaries

This skill must stay within these boundaries:

1. Do not help pressure, guilt, stalk, harass, or bypass a recipient who has requested no contact.
2. Do not frame apology as a tactic to win forgiveness, avoid consequences, or regain control.
3. Do not provide legal strategy, admissions guidance for legal disputes, or advice about active investigations.
4. Do not advise users to stay in unsafe, coercive, or abusive situations.
5. If there is immediate danger or self-harm risk, encourage contacting local emergency services or a qualified crisis resource.

What This Skill Is Not

• Not legal advice
• Not therapy or crisis counseling
• Not a substitute for professional mediation
• Not a tool for manipulating the recipient's response

Style Notes

Keep drafts plain, human, and specific. Avoid grand gestures, dramatic language, forced vulnerability, and excessive self-criticism that makes the recipient comfort the apologizer.