As we enter the world of the spirit our next function is to grow in understanding and effectiveness. This is not an overnight matter. It should continue for a lifetime. We continue to watch for SELFISHNESS, DISHONESTY, RESENTMENT, and FEAR. When these manifest we should ask for God's help immediately. We should not hesitate to take thoughts captive as we did in the fourth step inventory.

Who or what am I angry at?

What did they do?

What part of self was threatened, harmed, or interfered with?: Self-Esteem, Ambitions, Personal and Sex Relations, Security, Money, or Pride

How did MY selfishness set the ball rolling?

This was our course: we realize that the people who wronged us were perhaps spiritually sick.

When a person is offended we ask God to help us show them the same tolerance, pity, and patience that we would cheerfully grant a sick friend. We avoid retaliation or argument, we wouldn't treat sick people that way. If we do, we destroy our chances of being helpful.