I am writing this letter to apologise. To apologise to a few individuals in my neighbourhood and to the councillor of Ward 70, Caleb Finn.
Before I elaborate on the incident I am apologising for, let me say that I did apologise privately to two individuals and the councillor and all three, with clemency and big hearts, accepted my apology. However, (and I hope they understand and accept) I thought it necessary to express my apology in a public forum such as the Roodepoort Record.
My offence and trespass were committed in public and in the presence of the respected councillor who is a public officer. I publicly showed disrespect to a committed servant of the public doing his duty and therefore have to correct it [my mistake] before the public. Perhaps, and hopefully, others can benefit from the incident and not commit the same folly and wrong as I did.
Firstly, for illegally dumping garbage. More than doing something illegal, I disrespected my fellow human beings and the residents of my neighbourhood. Secondly, and more importantly, I apologise profoundly for my manners, rather my complete lack of manners. I was reactionary, rude and arrogant when these individuals confronted me, pointing out my illegal and disrespectful deed.
They were within all their rights and human duty to confront me. I said many unkind things to them. I was also extremely rude to Mr Finn who came out only to do his duty. He was calm, measured and tried to reason with me all the time. I was in another space, for which I accept complete responsibility; no ifs and buts on my side. I spewed some very nasty words to him.
Guys, I am profoundly sorry and remorseful; as is often said, if only I could take everything back or reverse time. I cannot; I can only say sorry and hope you will be kind enough to forgive me.
Many people complain about the government and civil servants, often correctly so and with good reason. However, some of us are wrong and violate the public office-holder’s dignity, treating them with disdain and disrespect. I was guilty of such attitude and behaviour. Respected councillor Caleb Finn, Darren, Brandon, the community safety person (unfortunately I do not know your name), JMPD officer Isaac, and the few other people whose names I also do not know, [I say] a million times sorry and thank you for doing your human and civic duty.
Irrespective of our political persuasions, this is our ward and neighbourhood, and we all should all look after it. You all did, while I did not. Please keep doing your duty. My family too were very disappointed in me. I did not set a good example.
