Episode 173 Step 8 – Made a List of All the Persons We Had Harmed

Episode 173   Step 8 – Made a List of All the Persons We Had Harmed

From the Life Recovery Bible, the full version of Step 8 is “We made a list of all the persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.”

The verse from the Life Recovery Bible that really drives home the overall need and purpose for this step is found in Luke, Chapter 6, verse 31: “Do to others as you would like them to do to you.”

Who is the toughest person to forgive? Yourself! But until you and I forgive ourselves we’ll not be able to grow in recovery. If you’re not able to forgive yourself then how can you expect to forgive others? It’s also important for you to evaluate all your relationships. And then, when you’re ready and your list is completed – offer forgiveness to those who have hurt you and make amend for the harm you’ve done to others, except when to do so would harm them or others.

The three key points below offer a general overview of what Step 8 typically involves:

• Made a list of all persons we had harmed: In Step 8, individuals in recovery are encouraged to create a comprehensive list of all the people they have harmed directly or indirectly as a result of their addictive behavior. This can include family members, friends, colleagues, and others.
• Became willing to make amends to them all: This step involves developing a willingness to take responsibility for the harm caused to others and to make amends or restitution wherever possible. It's about recognizing the consequences of one's actions and being open to making things right.
• Prayed to God to help us become willing: Step 8 often emphasizes the importance of seeking spiritual guidance and strength to become willing to make amends. This may involve prayer, meditation, and seeking the support of a sponsor or accountability partner to assist in the process of making things right with others.

We closed this episode with a quote from Phillip Yancey, a Christian author: “I can do nothing to make God love me more. Likewise, nothing I do will cause God to love me less.”

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