Step 4: Inventory

Made a Searching and Fearless Moral Inventory

Seeking self-knowledge that offers peace of mind, free from ego-centric impulses.

Am I willing to look at my resentments to discover my own truth?

“Resentment is the ‘number one’ offender. It destroys more alcoholics than anything else” (Pg.64, ¶3, L1).

Have I allowed resentment to be a "bar against all information"?
Am I willing to pause and consider why I relate to certain examples of anger or hurt in the Big Book?
Can I look for similarities in my feelings rather than differences in my circumstances?

I am Resentful at	The Cause	Affects My	My Inward Reality
Person, Institution, or Principle	"What did they do to me?"	Self-esteem, Security, Ambitions, Personal or Sex Relations	"Where was I selfish, dishonest, or afraid? What is my truth?"

Has unfounded fear been a "bar against all information" in my life?

My Fear (The Appearance)	Why I am Afraid (Inward Reality)	The Spiritual Malady	The Path to Light
Fear of People	Self-reliance and "ego-centric impulses"	Living in the "land of deep darkness"	"Hitting bottom revealed an 'Inner Light,' God's Grace"
Fear of the Future	"Contempt prior to investigation" of spiritual truth	An "unmanageable spirit"	"Self-knowledge that offers Peace of mind"
Fear of Failure	Relying on "human power" that cannot relieve us	A "bar against all information"	"Always praying to discover our own truth"

“There is a principle which is a bar against all information... that principle is contempt prior to investigation” ~ Herbert Spencer (Pg.568)

“We reviewed our own conduct over the years past” (Pg.69,¶1,L11).

I look for my selfishness by internalizing these 9 questions:

1. Where had I been selfish?

2. Where had I been dishonest?

3. Where had I been inconsiderate?

4. Whom did I hurt?

5. Did I arouse jealousy?

6. Did I arouse suspicion?

7. Did I arouse bitterness?

8. Where was I at fault?

9. What should I have done instead? (Sex Ideal)

"I ask God to mold my ideals and help me to live up to them" (Pg.69,¶2,L19).

“In this way I try to shape a sane and sound ideal for my future sex life” (Pg.69,¶2,L1).