Step Nine
 

Step Eight got us ready for the big event, but here's where we truly go into action.

This is the step where we take our courage in hand, and sally forth to do battle with all our old ghosts. We are armed with the knowledge that the ultimate aim of this step is to wipe our own slate clean. And we're prepared to meet some reactions that may be hostile and unforgiving.

Our objective is to be honest and straightforward enough to walk away from these encounters knowing that we have fulfilled our obligation to set matters as right as possible.

This sets the stage for us to be able to forgive ourselves regardless of whether those to whom we make amends are willing to forgive us. It is in self-forgiveness that we become truly convinced that lasting recovery is possible.

Nothing can match the relief we feel when there is nothing hanging over our heads any longer. Joy returns to our lives when we have divested ourselves of guilty secrets to the point where we're no longer fearful that at any moment our misdeeds will be exposed for all the world to see.

It's been said that we're as sick as our secrets. Step Nine helps us walk in our world in comfort and confidence.

From:Step by Step