Sorry

For some reason I am supposed to talk about this word today.  You hear sorry many times, but what does it really mean and is it what it means or how one takes it when said? 
Websters definition: : feeling sorrow, regret, or penitence : mournful, sad : inspiring sorrow, pity, scorn, or ridicule : pitiful
I teach my children and my students that if you accidentally do something to another person, make sure to say you are sorry - then they know it was an accident and you didn't mean to - if you don't apologize, it seems that the incident was done on purpose and therfore you are probably bullying.
We say sorry to people when we have hurt them.
We say sorry to others when there has been a loss and we are at a loss of words to comfort.
We use sorry sarcastically with a rise in tone when we are frustrated.
Sorry is used as an apology.
Are sorry and empathy related?
How does forgiveness fit in?  How about Remorse and Repent?  All words related to Sorry....

I'd be interested to hear what others have to say on this.  A wise counselor has always told me there is a big difference between being remorsefull and repentive.  

Today I watched a video presentation of Dr. Todd Whitaker.  He was very inspirational.  One notable quote he said was that an apology is a very powerful thing.  He used examples of people who knew how to apologize and then those who used the sarcastic "SOOOORRRRYY..." (can you hear those children in your head?  Maybe adults too?  :)) and didn't know how to apologize.  Can we teach empathy?  Is it a learned behavior or is it something you have or don't have?  Is it best taught through modeling?  So many thoughts....

James 5:16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.   

Dear Lord, I am sorry for not living my life completely to your standards.  We say we can only do our best, but I know in that best, there is always better.  Guide me in forgiveness, empathy, remorse, repenting, apologies, and regret so that I may know the difference between them and clear my head to think of each as you do.  Please help others to do the same.  Help me teach and model to children sincerety and empathy.  Thank you for the clearness you have shown.  I continue to lift my hands and heart to you so that I may follow the path you have called for me.  In Your Name, Amen