7 September | Just for Today
Resentment and forgiveness
"Where there has been wrong, the program teaches us the spirit of forgiveness."
Basic Text p.12
Just for today: I will let go of my resentments. Today, if I am wronged, I will practice
forgiveness, knowing that I need forgiveness myself.
Navigating the Path to Healing
September 7 – Daily Meditations for Recovering Addicts
Today’s meditation from Just For Today focuses on two crucial aspects of recovery: resentment and forgiveness. As we navigate life in recovery, we inevitably encounter situations that can lead to feelings of resentment. Understanding how to address these feelings constructively is vital for maintaining our sobriety and fostering personal growth.
The Price of Interaction
Recovery often brings us back into active interaction with the world and people around us. While this re-engagement is a positive step towards a fulfilling life, it also exposes us to the complexities of human relationships. In these interactions, it is almost inevitable that someone will, intentionally or unintentionally, cause us discomfort or hurt.
These interactions can give rise to resentments—grudges or feelings of bitterness that we hold against others. Whether these resentments are justified or not, they pose a significant risk to our recovery. Holding onto such negative emotions can be detrimental, potentially leading to a relapse or undermining the progress we’ve made.
The Dangers of Resentment
Resentments, if left unchecked, can become corrosive. The longer we nurture these feelings, the more they can fester, transforming into bitterness that seeps into all aspects of our lives. This bitterness not only affects our mental and emotional well-being but also hampers our ability to stay clean and focused on our recovery goals.
The program teaches us that forgiveness is essential for overcoming resentment. Forgiveness is not just about letting others off the hook; it’s about freeing ourselves from the chains of bitterness and resentment that can drag us down.
The Role of Forgiveness in Recovery
Forgiveness is a core principle in the Twelve Steps of Narcotics Anonymous (NA). We begin to develop this capacity in Steps Eight and Nine, where we make amends and seek to repair relationships damaged by our past behavior. However, forgiveness is an ongoing process that we maintain through regular practice, particularly in Step Ten, which encourages continuous self-inventory and prompt correction of any wrongs.
An effective way to practice forgiveness is to recognize that we are all human and make mistakes. We, too, have needed forgiveness in the past and have felt relief and healing when others accepted our sincere amends. Remembering this can help us approach others with compassion and understanding.
Embracing Forgiveness
Forgiveness becomes more manageable when we view it as a mutual need rather than a one-sided act. We all do the best we can in our current circumstances, and acknowledging this can help us extend the same grace to others. By letting go of our resentments, we not only enhance our own recovery but also contribute to healthier, more positive relationships.
Just for Today
Commit to letting go of resentments and practicing forgiveness. When you feel wronged, focus on the act of forgiving, understanding that you, too, will need forgiveness at times. By incorporating forgiveness into your daily life, you can maintain your recovery, foster personal growth, and build stronger, more supportive relationships.
In summary, addressing resentment through forgiveness is crucial for maintaining recovery. By letting go of grudges and practicing compassion, we safeguard our sobriety and promote emotional well-being. Embrace the practice of forgiveness as a key element of your recovery journey, and continue to grow in understanding and grace.
