Should I apologize to this guy for touching his ass 13 years ago?

[Anonymous]

This was my sophomore year in highschool. I was part of the wrestling team, and this one guy joined. We were in the same grade. I don't know why, but one practice, my friend, and I kept walking by, and touching his butt. I guess because he I thought he was strange, and I just wanted to see how he'd react. He just stood there like nothing happend, as my friend, and I were laughing. Shorlty after that, he quit the team, and I'm betting he quit because of us. Thus was 13 years ago, and I think about it a lot. I work at Walmart, and I see this guy come in everyday to get a soda. I've thought about trying to apologizing to him. I talked to my dad about this, and he said that he probably doesn't even remember, and I'd just make a fool of myself, and make him uncomfortable, but what if he does remember, and he's hoping I apologize?

[Oliverlogan263]

Dude that's honestly such a messed up situation. I can't believe back in high school you actually thought it was funny to go touching that guy's butt, especially on the wrestling team like that! No wonder he quit, I would've too if people were harassing me like that. I get that as teenagers we all do stupid things to get laughs from our friends, but looking back you've gotta see how uncomfortable and weird that must've made him feel. If I was in his shoes, I know I'd want an apology too after all these years.

I'd say you definitely should try talking to him man. Even if your dad thinks he might not remember or get weirded out, you'll always kinda wonder "what if" deep down if you don't at least try. Next time you see him at work, maybe wait for a slow time when it's not too busy and go up to him. Try breaking the ice with a joke like "Hey man, don't worry I swear I'm not here to touch your butt this time!" and give a little laugh so he knows you're not trying to be rude. Then just be real with him - tell him you felt bad about how you acted back in school and you wanted to say sorry for making him uncomfortable all those years ago.

Worst thing that can happen is maybe he doesn't care or doesn't remember. But at least you'll know you did the right thing by apologizing and you won't have to keep wondering "what if" forever. And who knows, maybe he'll actually appreciate you owning up to it after all this time. Either way I think you'll feel better getting it off your chest. Just be sincere when you talk to him and I'm sure it'll go alright dude. Let me know how it goes!

[jahaims]

Weird you still think about it. If you do apologize I wouldn't specifically mention the situation. Say something like sorry if I was the reason you quit wrestling. I realize I was mmature and wanted to apologize.
Hazing each other is a part of male sports. I wouldn't worry too much about it.

[Alice18]

Yes , you should apologize.

[Abbycado]

13 years ago? Let it go.