Step Eight

“Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.”

Made a list – only make the list first.

we had harmed – those we identified in Step Four

willing to make amends – willing to take responsibility for our actions and make things right

Step Eight involves a personal inventory and reflection on the harm caused to others as a result of our addictive behaviors or character defects. It requires us to honestly examine our actions and identify the people we have harmed directly or indirectly, emotionally, financially, or physically.

The step emphasizes the importance of willingness to make amends, as it acknowledges that personal growth and healing require taking responsibility for our actions. By making a comprehensive list of those harmed, we gain awareness of the impact of our behavior on others and begin the process of making amends.

It’s important to note that Step Eight does not involve directly making amends to the individuals on the list; rather, it focuses on developing the willingness to do so. Making amends occurs in Step Nine, after completing Step Eight.

Ultimately, Step Eight aims to promote accountability, empathy, and healing for both us and those we have harmed.