Almost every person I have met in recovery mentioned to me that they dreaded the same exact thing when working the 12 steps. Step 9. “We made direct amends to such people whenever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.” Yep, that Step 9. Facing the fallout is what I call it. As I worked through the steps with my sponsor, inevitably the same thought kept coming to me over and over: How on earth am I going to be able to make amends to everyone I hurt?
Amends. According to Miriam-Webster, amends is “to compensate for a loss or injury.” I wasn’t ready to compensate for anything when I entered recovery. I thought I would never be ready to face the damage I caused. I was like many other people I know in recovery. I was afraid of this step. Afraid to face the people that I had harmed in my addiction. Those that I had disregarded in my descent into self destruction and selfishness. My wife, my kids, my mother in law, my friends and family. All those that I had lied to, damaged from my selfishness and manipulation. I did not think I would ever be at a point where I was ready to face them with rigorous honesty.
Yet, I did. I do continually. My life in marriage is a living amends to my wife and kids. Owning my mistakes with those around me. I recognize when I am wrong, admit it, and make amends where possible. What I found about Step 9, then and now, is that making amends isn’t a one time thing. Its how I live my life in recovery. Recognizing the hurt I caused and living a life pursuing sanctification. A life of amends…different than before.
Join us Saturday for a message on Step 9. Expect impactful worship songs, a time of celebration and sharing of our milestones, and a testimony of spiritual awakening.
When: Every Saturday at 5:30 pm
Location: The Fellowship (in the Loft), 22765 Westheimer Pkwy, Katy, TX 77450
Childcare is available. Pre-notification is not necessary but is requested. For more information about childcare, email us info@theprodigals.org.
