RIGHTING THE HARM
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for August 17.
Righting the harm is the heart of Step Nine—we make direct amends to those we've wronged, but it's not just about apologies. The Big Book says, 'We made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others' [Page 59]. This means we must be thoughtful, not reckless. Sometimes the bravest amends is staying silent to protect someone else. As Bill writes, 'We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it' [Page 83]—amends free us from guilt and open the door to a new way of living. For those still resentful, the book counsels: 'Continue to watch for selfishness, dishonesty, resentment, and fear' [Page 84]. Righting harm is a daily practice, not a one-time event. It's the foundation of living free.
Is there a harm you've been avoiding making right because you're afraid of how it will be received? What would it cost you to try?
Start each day with Einstein's Big Book perspective — a quiet moment before the world gets loud.
This is Recovery Einstein's original Big Book perspective on the day's theme — not the official AA Daily Reflections text. For the official reflection, follow the aa.org link above. Page references are to Alcoholics Anonymous (the Big Book), 4th Edition.
Quick answers
What is the AA Daily Reflection for August 17?
The theme for August 17 is “Righting the Harm.” Righting the harm is the heart of Step Nine—we make direct amends to those we've wronged, but it's not just about apologies.
Is there a harm you've been avoiding making right because you're afraid of how it will be received? What would it cost you to try?
Righting harm is a daily practice, not a one-time event. It's the foundation of living free. (Big Book: Chapter 6, pages 76-84)