Embarrassment

 As we prepare to do the steps in a recovery program, who among us enjoys doing a Step Four inventory or writing out the last 90 days of our addiction?  Part of the reluctance so many of us experience when we make an appointment with someone to confess the exact nature of our wrongs, is the shame and embarrassment we feel over past events.  It’s not easy to admit our faults, and there is a huge stigma attached to the circumstances of our life in addiction that took many of us to prison, psych wards, or to life under a bridge etc.  None of us like admitting to the mistakes we made but the sooner we do, the quicker we can learn from them and start to grow. 

 The embarrassment of needing to ask for help is the next hurdle to overcome.  It’s hard to admit that life is out of control and at the same time recognize ourselves as persons of dignity and value beyond our addiction.  The truth is, we were created by a loving God to do good and make a positive difference in our community.  We need to own that and affirm that until it sets the foundation of who we are and why we are living and breathing.  We ask for help in order to get rid of anything that keeps us from living in the dignity of being who God says we are. 

 Sometimes the baggage others carry results in them trying to embarrass and humiliate us in order to feel better about themselves.  We need to refuse the lies while blessing the person who is spewing them and praying for them to be healed and restored. 

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I am who You say I am, and I’m created in your image.  No one is more beautiful and worthy of honour than You, so I turn from the guilt and shame of my rebellious ways and accept what You have done for me through Jesus.  Help me to let the shame and embarrassment go.  Help me to live in response to Your great love for me.  Amen

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