Atonement

[Jhanananda]

Atonement

noun
1. satisfaction or reparation for a wrong or injury; amends.
2. (sometimes initial capital letter) Theology. the doctrine concerning the reconciliation of God and humankind, especially as accomplished through the life, suffering, and death of Christ.
3. Christian Science. the experience of humankind's unity with God exemplified by Jesus Christ.
4. Archaic. reconciliation; agreement.

At the heart of addiction is the dysfunctional family system.  In the dysfunctional family system there are often many abuses.  In Christianity there is often a request to forgive; however until there is Atonement then forgiveness only opens the door to more abuse.  When a dysfunctional family cannot adequately atone for its wrong doing, then there cannot be any reconciliation, so it is often best for those recovering from addiction to avoid contact with the dysfunctional family.

[Alexander]

To atone means to go within oneself: but to go within means to face everything that is uncomfortable, evil, and frightening about us. Most people are not willing to do that, so for most people the door to atonement is closed.

[Jhanananda]

I agree, Alexander.  Good to hear from you again.