STEP 9: We made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
Timing is an essential part of this step. Pride, fear and procrastination often seem an impossible barrier; they stand in the way of progress and growth. The important thing is to take action and to be ready to accept the reactions of those persons we have harmed. We make amends to the best of our ability. This can be a joyous occasion or one of confrontation and bitterness.
STEP 10: We continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
This step can be a defense against the old insanity. We can ask ourselves if we are being drawn into old patterns of anger, resentment or fear. Do we feel trapped? Are we setting ourselves up for trouble? Are we too hungry, angry, lonely, or tired? Are we judging our insides by the outside appearence of others?
STEP 11: We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with GOD as we understood HIM, praying only for knowledge of HIS will for us and the power to carry that out.
Our spiritual condition is the basis for a successful recovery that offers unlimited growth.
STEP 12: Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to addicts, and to practice these principals in all our affairs.
When we share with someone new, we may ask to be used as a spiritual instrument of our Higher Power. It is a privilege to respond to a cry for help. We, who have been in the pits of despair, feel fortunate to help others find recovery. (Ref Narcotics Anonymous 5th Ed.)