When we begin making amends, it's easy to think we need the perfect speech. The Big Book cautions us against approaching people on a spiritual basis. After years of drunken behavior, showing up acting like a holy roller may only make matters worse. We're not there to preach or even to be forgiven.
We're there to clean up our side of the street.
The spirit of forgiveness begins with us. We've forgiven ourselves enough to honestly admit our wrongs and do our best not to repeat them. We're willing to listen without excuses, arguments, or debate. We show up, stand tall, and stay sober. We put in the footwork and leave the outcome to God.
Our responsibility isn't to earn forgiveness. It's to become the kind of person willing to make things right. In the end, our actions speak louder than any words we could ever say.
Which is harder for you: admitting your wrongs, listening without defending yourself, or letting go of the outcome?
