Should I include people that I think negatively of on this list? Well, yes, because I eventually will tell someone else exactly how I feel about said person. I think that’s why Step 4 was so easy for me: I’m an expert at taking inventory. Yours, mine, the President’s, it doesn’t matter. Everyone’s got their own file, folder and box. I’ve caught myself taking the dog’s inventory. The dog’s.
Step 8: Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
It’s not so much that I gossip. I don’t play telephone well. But get me in a closed room with a bullhorn and a confidante, and I’ll verbally script a laundry list of why so and so sucks.
Even though 85% of what I say is true, and 15% is colorful embellishment, it’s still 100% wrong.
The 12 Step program is meant for me to focus on me; something I naturally excel at. So why am I so eager to look elsewhere and blame others?
Because it’s easier.
Example of working the Program: I’m miserable at my current job. But instead of being miserable everyday I go to work, I’m willing to cultivate a happy attitude. This is possible when I know I’m working on making the situation better, i.e., sending out resumes, networking, etc.
I might not see any results of my efforts today, but the knowledge I’m working on it helps lessen the anger and angst.
Just don’t get me started on the cat.
