Forgiving Myself

The most difficult part of ongoing recovery is admitting that I really am a sinner and allowing God to see and forgive me as I am, with all my faults unmended and all my flaws showing, especially the ones over which I seem to have no control.

Have mercy, My Creator, in your kindness:

When I am reluctant to own my sins as sins.

When I am afraid, in my sinfulness, to pray.

When I feel hopeless about the sinful patterns in which we are trapped.

When I refuse to forgive others because I cannot forgive myself.

Forgive what I cannot forgive;

heal what I dare not face;

grant humility where I take refuge in false pride.

Grant me singleness of heart and a stead fast spirit.