I don't think my W is anywhere near giving a damn about whether I say: "I'm sorry you feel that way." or "I understand you feel that way."

IMHO both are validating statements which in context (ie. everyday common language) do not automatically imply an apology for someone's feelings or imply causing those feelings.

And I'm sorry you feel that way !!

Me 53 XW 50
M 18 Years +2
S14 D19
Bomb 10-24-10
Served 1-27-11
Mediate 4-21-11
Civil D Final 6-2-11
No church anullment
"A man is not finished when he is defeated, he is finished when he quits."