There are things I have done that I know I can never make up for. You are right, words are simply words. Actions speak louder than words ever could, and in my quest to make things right with those I've wronged, or at least the ones that are still alive, I do whatever it takes to do the right thing for the greater good. Try to do what benefits the many instead of the few, and keep with that. Striving to do good does help, but earning trust, especially when you have broken, is the most difficult task a person can undertake. But it is worth it.
Though I have come to believe that part of this path of redemption is to forgive yourself, or at least make peace with yourself. That is the part that I have the most difficult with, but I am trying.