A commitment to right a wrong

The Parable of the Prodigal Son speaks to many themes in family businesses, and last week’s reflection contemplated how we come to realize we’ve made a mistake in our treatment of our loved ones.

In this rich story, when the younger son comes to the realization of his mistake, he makes a decision, an admission, and a proposal:

“I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.’” (Luke 15: 18-19)

Several things are happenning here. First, the younger son commits to resolving the situation by going to his father. Second, he acknowledges the severity of his mistake. He has “sinned against heaven,” reflecting a deep offense against an ethical or moral principle. Third, he recognizes he’s behaved badly enough to lose his position as a son; he’s naming the consequence of his mistake. Fourth, he offers a remedy to restore the relationship. He knows the bond cannot be what it once was, but he does suggest what it can be.

These two verses offer a short course in the necessary work of reconciliation. Notice how much effort is required before the parties get together. In other words, the work one has to do — committing, acknowledging, naming, offering a remedy — is largely in advance of a discussion with the other person. It involves a deep level of personal reflection, a willingess to see how others might perceive your actions, a consideration of consequences, and some suggestion of a path forward. 80% of the work is your own!

Is there a difficult relationship in your family or family business you want to improve? What elements of the younger son’s plan speak to what you may need to do?