[Talking_Mouse]

Yeah, it takes some effort. And some honesty. And a touch of humility. It might seem like an effort beforehand, but I've walked out with a smile on my face more than once.

...There's also the benefit of actually being stregnthened to avoid sin in the future.

Exactly. This is one of the things that can not be stressed enough. Since this is the Sacrament of Reconciliation when we avail ourselves of it we are given additional grace to avoid sin in the future. I remember when I confessed to the priest that I was so disgusted with fighting and loosing to the same sins week after week, he said that I would be in far worse shape without the grace given to me each time I came to confession.

One of the other true benefits of confession is having someone who can give you practical advise. The priest is trained to deal with penitents, and can help with your sins from the mental judmentalism about your coworkers to the problem that the kid's babysitter is who you want to be sleeping with.

[muawiyah]

Just like posting at Free Republic. You tell us your problem and we'll give you several answers.

[AHerald]

This is one of the things that can not be stressed enough. Since this is the Sacrament of Reconciliation when we avail ourselves of it we are given additional grace to avoid sin in the future

Right on. Great post, Talking. Thanks.