Apology

What is with people's desire hear people say "I'm sorry"?  Once a person says something it can not be unsaid and most likely you first said it because you believed what you said at the time, so saying "I'm sorry" doesn't mean much.  If one wants to apologize for real, one should instead explain one's views further.  Explain why you said what you said, and possibly what your views are now.  Or better yet, both sides should just realize that people often have thoughts about each other that are better left ignored.  If someone hurts you, get on with your life and simply forgive and forget.