Join Wayne Giles as he continues to guide us through the critical self-examination process in Step 4 of Alcoholics Anonymous. In this session, Wayne delves into the heart of our actions and reactions: fear. Often, when we reflect on moments of anger, we realize that it’s just a secondary emotion masking a deeper fear. Whether it’s fear of rejection, fear of failure, or fear of losing control, these feelings drive much of our selfishness and self-seeking behaviors.

In Step 4, the Big Book directs us to take an honest inventory of our own faults. “Though a situation had not been entirely our fault, we tried to disregard the other person involved entirely.” The inventory is about our part, not theirs. Writing down our own mistakes and missteps brings a magical clarity to the process. By listing where we’ve been selfish, dishonest, or fe ...