By making amends, we are following through with our inner acknowledgment of our destructive behaviors. We are taking our inner work and applying it to our relationships with people, life and self. These amends are making our understanding tangible. We are confirming our change by taking actions that prove we understand the work we’ve been doing. Our growth is evident.

This is closure to the disruptions we might have caused others. When we bring closure by acknowledging to others our awareness of our past actions, we can close the chapter to the way we used to be. Even if those we make amends with are not in a place where they can accept or trust that we have changed, we are doing our part. These amends are giving us a second chance to choose who we want to be. Cleaning up after ourselves is owning our part in our past relationships. By caring about others, we are relieving the guilt, shame, and fear that our heart has carried.

Forgiveness of self, of others, and making amends with those we might have harmed is one more step towards freeing ourselves to feel good about who we are. We are more connected to our heart than we have ever been, and this feels good.