If we are honest and sincere about our amends, then we will not repeat those mistakes, and we will not rush people to forgiveness. We will honor the emotional consequences that stem from our behaviors, and seek to become healthier so as not to repeat them. Confidential helplines, like SAMHSA’s National Helpline, offer support and referrals for those navigating addiction recovery. Continued participation in therapy and support meetings is essential for managing the challenges that arise during the amends process.
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No matter how much we feel the need to make things right, forcing another to meet with us or hear from us is not part of the Steps. When those we’ve hurt are not able or willing to accept our amends, we can still move in a positive general direction by taking intentional steps to be of service to others or making living amends. Unlike other sober living scholarships, your future is in your hands. We don’t pay the full amount for your stay in the sober living facility. We require recipients to pay 25% of the first month’s rent at their sober living facility. In the second month, if they reapply and successfully are awarded the second month’s rent, the resident will pay 50% of the rent.
What Does Making Amends in Recovery Actually Mean?
- This process fosters healing and resolution, providing clarity and relief from guilt for both parties involved.
- If they take my words for granted, sometimes, I take a break from talking.
- If interacting with someone re-traumatizes you, or increases your risk of relapse, you might want to reconsider approaching them.
The reason I’m applying again is because I probably won’t get paid until the middle of next month. Doubt I will get it in time… If I get it at all but I just need a little more help. I have a decent place to live, a good, accessible job on the way and I’m rock solid in my sobriety. Well, there are no half measures, and it ain’t easy… if it were easy, everyone would be doing it! It takes strength and courage to own up to our mistakes, and when necessary, make restitutions. It is another rewarding part of our recovery journey and brings us closer to the gift of freedom.
Ways to Make Living Amends
Step 9 in AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) involves making direct amends to those harmed by one’s addiction, except when doing so would injure them or others. This step is necessary in the recovery process, as it helps people take responsibility for their actions and begin repairing the damage caused by their addiction. This living amends step, as well as every step in the 12-step process, is a time-tested aspect of addiction treatment. For many people, the 12 steps have been vital in their recovery process.
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Even though we may be eager to rip the Band-Aid off and get an amend over and done with, it’s important that we are not impulsive or careless as we attempt to make amends! Some thought and planning needs to go into it for the best possible outcome. On the living amends flipside of the same AA coin, it is equally important that you don’t procrastinate making amends.
- At Eudaimonia Recovery Homes, we provide personalized recovery support with comfortable sober living Austin, Houston, and Colorado Springs.
- When someone struggles with addiction, they are not the only ones affected.
- They provide you with a roadmap to recovery and personal growth.
- If you have taken these steps in recovery, please leave a comment!
Apologies vs. Amends
We may be in recovery, but our family members may not be able to trust that it’s permanent or sincere. It took time for us to emerge from our chrysalis fully committed to recovery, and the people around us are entitled to go through the process without being rushed. All we can do is get sober, be the best person we can be and, above all, be patient.
How Making Amends Positively Affects the Brain
I also have a new profession in the sobriety field that feels like a calling. I can now pay it forward just like many did for me and would like to sponsor/scholarship someone. I would like to thank Living Amends for alcoholism the chance they gave me with the scholarship to sober living.
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I feel like I’ve actually built a sober family here in Texas, and it’s all thanks to Living Amends. I feel like I not only have a fighting chance at long-term sobriety but a good chance at long-term sobriety. I don’t take it for granted, and I will continue to pay it forward. I know your contribution will help a lot more than just me https://flixsix.com/j-cole-c-l-o-s-e-lyrics/ in the long run. Sometimes, the person being approached for amends may need more time to be willing or ready to engage. It’s important to respect their boundaries and not force the interaction, as this could potentially cause further harm.
However, if you are searching for answers related to AA’s Step 9, you’ve come to the right place because, as mentioned, the 12 steps are the same. In Celebrate Recovery Step 8, we learned all about making a list of amends. If you haven’t read that lesson, please do so before continuing on so that you can keep it one step at a time in the recovery process. Many people find that the support they receive from AA meetings helps them prepare to make amends. Talking with your sober community about your history with drugs or alcohol can help you identify what you need to make amends for. Making amends helps repair relationship problems caused by addiction.