Amends Quote by Alcoholics Anonymous
““To make amends can be viewed two ways: first, that of repairing damage, for if I have damaged my neighbor’s fence, I “make a mend,” and that is a direct amend; the second way is by modifying my behavior, for if my actions have harmed someone, I make a daily effort to cause no further harm. I “mend my ways,” and that is an indirect amend. Which is the best approach? The only right approach, provided that I am causing no further harm in so doing, is to do both. If harm is done, then I simply “mend my ways.” To take action in this manner assures me of making honest amends.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Alcoholics Anonymous (The Big Book), 1939
Repairing damage and changing behavior are both necessary for true amends; combine them when possible, otherwise focus on behavior change alone.
In simple terms: Fix what you broke and improve yourself.
Key Takeaway
Do both if you can; otherwise change your ways.
Themes
responsibility
rehabilitation
self‑improvement
Mood
reflective
determined
Type
advice
self‑help
When to use this quote
- conflict resolution
- relationship repair
- addiction recovery
- personal accountability
Key Concepts
restorative justice
personal growth
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you ensure your actions no longer cause harm?
- What steps can you take to repair past damage?
A Different Perspective
If you cannot repair the damage directly, focusing only on behavior may be insufficient for closure.
![“Sadly, [Pablo Escobar] ended up throwing away the one opportunity he had. I naively thought, as a son and as many other Colombians, that he would take this opportunity to make amends with the country.” quote by Juan Pablo Escobar](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/54f/juan-pablo-escobar-11709_amends_sadly-pablo-escobar-ended-up-throwing-aw_127586.jpg)
