Step 8: Find the Willingness to Make Amends

Only when you have the desire to do something can you have the ability to do it.

For many recovering addicts, the second half of Step 8—being willing to make amends—is very difficult. Sometimes we struggle for days, weeks, months, or even years before we find the necessary willingness. If we find ourselves struggling with old anger and resentment in this way, we can try praying (as sincerely as possible) for the other person’s health and well-being every morning and evening for two weeks. Most of us find that doing this significantly reduces lingering resentment. Positive affirmations such as “I am willing to make amends for my actions, regardless of the actions of the other person” can also help. Often, if we say it enough, we begin to believe it.

Today’s Task
Think about a long-held resentment and take at least one step toward releasing it.