Confession of a fault makes half amends for it.

Meaning: Admitting wrongdoing demonstrates genuine remorse and restores trust faster than pretending innocence or silence.

Origin: Recorded in A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases, an undated collection published in London by Whittaker & Co. around 1880 and credited to Thomas Preston. Its earlier history hasn't been traced.

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  • Tienes mucho arte — You have natural flair, charm, and creative talent — an effortless quality that can't be…
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