Berat, Albania, 2016
Step 5 is where secrets lose their power. In these two reflections, one contributor finds freedom in total honesty, while the other discovers truth hiding behind shame.
Before step 5, I had always tried to lead a double life, attempting to fool the people around me as to who I was and what I was like. I feared anyone seeing me for who I believed I was, feeling that they would respond to me as to Frankensteinās monster ā horrified and revolted. This step taught me the value of facing my fears, humbling myself, and being completely honest. By admitting to God, to myself, and to my sponsor the exact nature of my wrongs, leaving nothing out, and bringing to the light every secret I had previously sworn I would take to the grave with me, I was set free. Knowing that I could be accepted by other people for exactly who I am, I started be able to look people in the eye again. Knowing that I am accepted by God for who I am, I began to feel His grace and a closeness that grows with every step.
ā Alex
In Step 5 I learned that where there is embarrassment there is truth.
ā Anonymous