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.
12 the hard way 