Lately, I have become involved in two brouhahas. They both were caused by somebody slighting someone, and the repercussions that followed.

In both instances, the affront did not make any of the local or national tabloid newspapers. Both offenses involved anger, bruised feelings, power versus impotence and misplaced hostility.

Yes, tears were shed in both cases, but tears are an imperfect determinant of right of wrong.

People on the periphery took sides immediately. This happened even before they heard the complete story and got an unbiased picture. A rush to imperfect judgment is usually a fact in all of these cases.

Let us call them Case A and Case B.

In Case A, neither side relented. Both felt that justice was perched on their shoulder and their vindication was just around the corner.

Mountains of paperwork were generated. "She said," "He said," "They said," filled voluminous files and folders. Witnesses were deposed and some were even manufactured. No one would compromise.

It would have to come before a third party (unbiased - if only that were possible). Time and much negative energy would be consumed. It is still ongoing at the time I am putting my pen to this paper.

Case B. The slight was registered. Both parties spouted their versions of the incident. It headed toward a crescendo - but something happened.

An intermediary politely said, "Why don't you two people apologize to each other?" A time and place were arranged and each aggrieved party said, "I apologize." Situation defused.

Even the ancient Romans had a name for it - Mea Culpa. It is my fault.

No paperwork! No carry over!

End of story.