We say, “Al cheit shechatanu lifanecha” – “For the sin that we committed before You.” Rebbe Asher of Stolin zt’l explained that our primary regret is “shechatanu lifanecha” that we sinned before You; that we caused Hashem distress. People can regret their sins for several reasons (a primary motive is fear of punishment) but the most ideal form of regret is shechatanu lifanecha, we regret sinning against Hashem. ~ R’ Elimelech Biderman Shlita