Summary: “Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.” Continuing the series, “The Importance of working all Twelve Steps,” the leaders share their personal experiences as sponsor and sponsee in dealing with Step Eight. Emphasis is placed on the concept of making amends—changes—and not just saying I’m sorry. Also stressed is the importance of working with a sponsor, in order to determine if amends are needed, and if so what should be said or done. While Step Eight encourages forgiveness, it also requires the individual to focus on what his or her part was in the situation . . . to clear off their side of the street, regardless of how the amends are received. Both speakers stress the freedom and relief felt in making the list and becoming willing, without any thought or concern about the future steps. Individual sharing is excellent as members relate their own positive experiences, including the need to add one’s own name to the list and then become willing to making amends to oneself.
