Alcoholics Anonymous - Motives in recovery

Motives
There are cases where our ancient enemy, rationalization,
has stepped in and has justified conduct which was really wrong.
The temptation here is to imagine that we had good motives and reasons
when we really didn't. . . .
We were depressed and complained we felt bad,
when in fact we were mainly asking for sympathy and attention.
This odd trait of mind and emotion, this perverse wish
to hide a bad motive underneath a good one,
permeates human affairs from top to bottom. . .
An honest regret for harms done, a genuine gratitude for blessings received,
and a willingness to try for better things tomorrow
will be the permanent assets we shall seek. 

May you work the program that allows you to straighten out your motives and life a life more rewarding than your wildest dreams.

 - Sober Living by the Sea Treatment Centers