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“Many of us have difficulty admitting that we caused harm to others… We cut away our justifications and our ideas of being a victim.”
– Basic Text, page 37
Recovery brings with it many gifts—both material and spiritual. As we work the program, we often find our lives improving in ways we never imagined. We gain stability, build relationships, and grow in self-confidence and faith. However, challenges still arise, and when they do, our sense of fairness can be tested. In these moments, it’s important to remember that what we need most is not justice, but mercy.
When something goes wrong in our lives, it’s natural to feel victimized. Whether it’s a stolen possession, a betrayal, or a sudden setback, we may find ourselves asking, Where’s the justice? This reaction is understandable, but it often blinds us to a deeper truth: we, too, have caused harm to others in the past.
In active addiction, many of us acted selfishly and irresponsibly. We may have stolen, lied, or betrayed those who cared about us. Even in recovery, we are not perfect; we make mistakes and hurt others, intentionally or unintentionally. When we reflect on these moments, we begin to realize that justice is not what we truly need. If justice were served for all our past actions, the consequences would likely be severe. Instead, what we need—and what we are often given—is mercy.
Mercy is a profound expression of compassion and forgiveness. It allows us to move beyond the rigid demands of justice and embrace a more loving and understanding perspective. In recovery, we experience mercy in many forms: the forgiveness of those we’ve wronged, the second chances we’re given, and the grace of a Higher Power who helps us heal and grow despite our flaws.
When we reflect on the mercy we’ve received, it becomes easier to extend that same compassion to others. Instead of demanding justice when we feel wronged, we can choose to forgive and let go of resentment. This shift in perspective not only brings us peace but also strengthens our spiritual connection and aligns us with the principles of recovery.
One of the barriers to practicing mercy is our tendency to justify our actions and cling to a sense of victimhood. In recovery, we learn to examine our behavior honestly, cutting away the justifications and excuses that once shielded us from accountability. This process can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential for growth.
When we stop seeing ourselves as victims and start taking responsibility for our actions, we gain the freedom to live authentically. We no longer have to carry the burden of resentment or blame. Instead, we can focus on making amends, building healthier relationships, and appreciating the gifts of recovery.
Practicing mercy helps us cultivate gratitude for the compassion and second chances we’ve received in recovery. Every day, we are given the opportunity to start fresh, to learn from our mistakes, and to grow into the people we are meant to be. This is a gift we should never take for granted.
By focusing on gratitude, we shift our attention away from what’s wrong and toward what’s right. We appreciate the progress we’ve made, the relationships we’ve built, and the strength we’ve gained. This attitude of gratitude not only enriches our recovery but also helps us approach challenges with a sense of perspective and resilience.
Just as we have received mercy, we are called to extend it to others. This means forgiving those who hurt us, letting go of grudges, and choosing compassion over judgment. It doesn’t mean we condone harmful behavior or allow ourselves to be mistreated. Instead, it means we choose to respond with understanding and grace, recognizing that everyone is on their own journey of growth and healing.
By practicing mercy, we create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion. Our actions inspire others to do the same, fostering a sense of connection and community within the fellowship and beyond.