So, context: I come from a family with addiction issues but have somehow avoided them to this point in my life.

That said, on a long enough timeline, every person with the slightest bit of self awareness will do/has done things that bring overwhelming shame. We are all fallible human beings.

It is the fact that you are TRYING to do better, that you are making an effort to go down a different path, that makes you immediately worthy of respect. It’s so easy to fall back into the comfort of the devil that we know.

If there are specific individuals that you’ve harmed, reach out. Let them know how you feel and that you’ve changed. You cannot control their response, but you will sleep better knowing you left nothing unsaid.

I wish you the best of luck. Growth without suffering is impossible, as man is both the sculptor and the clay.