March 15
Still Worth the Effort
Discovering an old defect can stir up a familiar argument with ourselves. One voice insists that we should be ashamed enough to change. Another says we have suffered enough and ought to leave ourselves alone. Both can sound convincing, especially when we are tired. Neither gives much attention to the person affected by our behavior or to the possibility that we could learn a better way.
Self-acceptance can include an honest wish to become more considerate. We do not have to despise ourselves to care that our impatience hurts someone. In fact, believing we are capable of growth may make responsibility easier to bear. Step Six invites readiness from the person we are, with the history and limitations we actually have. God is being asked to help this person. We need not become worthy of help before being willing to receive it.
What changes when I treat growth as something I am worth the trouble of pursuing?
I am still worth helping.
For the A.A. nerds: Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, Step Six.