My life has changed as a result of taking the Eighth Step. I now feel comfortable around every one I know. I have been able to put aside differences and extend unconditional love. How could that hurt? I used to be afraid to let go of resentments and afraid of people. I perceived, wrongly, that if I did let go (put down my walls) I would continue to be hurt or even be hurt in worse ways. I have learned, through sometimes painful work, that in all cases the emotional pain I have felt was my choice. I could feel… Read more »

For Step Eight, I made a list of all those I harbored ill feelings towards as I was having a problem knowing if I had actually harmed anyone. I’ve spoken badly about more than a few people, and had been dishonest in my conversations and actions when I felt threatened. I tend to think that I have gotten away with these things as long as no one calls me out. My list of ill feelings convinced me that I was harming myself and I wasn’t fooling anyone else with my tricks. At the root of it all, I want to… Read more »

When I came to Step Eight it was not as difficult as I had expected. The previous Steps had prepared me to know myself better and had established an awareness of how I had acted, reacted, and interacted with others. I could also see how in various ways I had harmed them. I also came to realized that I had harmed myself in many ways too. I had neglected myself physically, emotionally, and spiritually over the years. I looked at each word in the Step and it defused the fears and reservations I had. Making a list seemed quite easy.… Read more »