In some of our previous postings, we talked about how making amends can be one of the best things you can do during the holiday season, and can make for an incredibly rewarding new year’s resolution. However, what does “making amends” actually mean? Many people think it’s similar to apologizing, or as simple as writing a letter or two. However, making amends is more than just asking someone to forgive you, or hoping they’ll let you off the hook for something you might’ve done in the past. Making amends is a process, and it’s one that’s essential for a healthy and complete recovery.
Making Amends is Doesn’t End Once You’ve Apologized
When you apologize to someone, you’re admitting you did something wrong. You hope by doing this that you can make the person in question see that you’re making an effort to right a wrong. However, apologizing doesn’t rebuild any bridges on its own. This is why making amends is more than just apologizing; it’s a process. Instead of simply apologizing, show you’re ready to actually take action to repair a broken relationship. Take responsibility for the actions of your past, and make it clear you’re ready to change.
Be Direct
There are a lot of different ways to make amends. You can directly make amends by seeing the person face to face, apologizing, and making it clear you’ll do what it takes to repair the relationship. Sometimes this means returning stolen items, or paying them back for any damages that might have accrued while you were under the influence of addiction. You’ll be working with the person one-on-one to repair the relationship, no matter what it entails.
An Indirect Approach Works Too
Sometimes it can be difficult or even impossible to work with the ones you’ve hurt directly. In this case, the most you can do is show that you’ve changed and that you’re ready to make amends. However, sometimes this isn’t enough, but you can still make amends indirectly. Donate your time or money to help better your community. Do what you can to make the world around you a better place. You’ll be helping your environment and yourself at the same time.
Making amends isn’t always a straight line. Be creative, and express to those you love and the world around you that you’re ready to make a change.
