In the 12-Step programs, the 10th step is all about self-inventory.
10th Step: Continue to take personal inventory and when we are wrong promptly admit it.
In the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, it says;
This thought brings us to Step Ten, which suggests we continue to take personal inventory and continue to set right any new mistakes as we go along. We vigorously commenced this way of living as we cleaned up the past. We have entered the world of the Spirit. Our next function is to grow in understanding and effectiveness. This is not an overnight matter. It should continue for our lifetime. Continue to watch for selfishness, dishonesty, resentment, and fear. When these crop up, we ask God at once to remove them. We discuss them with someone immediately and make amends quickly if we have harmed anyone. Then we resolutely turn our thoughts to someone we can help. Love and tolerance of others is our code.
–A.A. Big Book p.84
We are both human and divine. Spirituality is the process of merging the human with the divine. I think we can all distinguish between the spiritual traits and the human traits in our lives.
We cannot now, nor will we ever be able to eliminate the human traits in our lives. These are part of the human piece. As stated above, “when these crop up,” sometimes these traits will only crop up in our mind and thoughts; sometimes they display themselves in a more advanced way. But they will always be there to some degree, depending on our spiritual practice.
Two main things: First, we need to be vigilant of them; continuing to always self-examine ourselves and how we react throughout our day. Could we have been kinder? Were we 100% honest in all our affairs? Did we shy away from helping another because we were too busy? Were we short with someone, etc.?
Second, when we see our shortcomings throughout the day, ask God for the strength to do better, and if we harmed anyone, make amends immediately.
Thank you.
Namaste,
Michael
To sign up to receive newsletters and updates from Michael, scroll to the bottom of the Ah-Man Website. You’ll find additional information and resources in the latest issue of the Ah-Man Newsletter. Read about his new book, Returning to WHOLENESS… Discovering Ah-Man at Amazon.
