Originally Posted by
CamTheCat As for steps 6 & 7, I found that although I was ready to have my defects of character removed, and I humbly asked for it to be so, I was surprised to find that I could have them right back as soon as I wanted! What I mean is that I need to actively work on my shortcomings in recovery, and new defects of character continue to present themselves throughout recovery.
Exactly!!
Although NA suggests that we shouldn't concentrate on trying to control our shortcomings and that we should simply "let them go"... it is my understanding that the role I play (through practicing the principles) is to "arrest" my defects. How many times have you heard members share that a behavior or attitude had been arrested but reoccurred in their lives? Even our literature makes mention of how we can pray for our HP to grant us something and then later get angry because He/She/It allowed us to take it back.
By being responsible, accountable and open-minded, I actively change my ideas, my attitudes and my behaviors.