[Miss Marple]

As a convert, I may have an appreciation of Confession that many cradle Catholics do not. I find that besides of the relief of absolution, the priest is often very helpful in having me look at problems in a different way and look for ways to avoid the behavior in the future.

Another benefit is that when I am tempted to repeat past sins, I can often remind myself that I do NOT want to have to confess the same thing again!

[NYer]

I find that besides of the relief of absolution, the priest is often very helpful in having me look at problems in a different way and look for ways to avoid the behavior in the future.

This is an excellent point! It is also beneficial to visit the same Confessor each time. They can then offer, as you noted, spiritual direction of a personalized nature.

[tiki]

I work with a Baptist guy, he calls me "little mother superior" just jokingly. One day I was explaining confession to him and why you went to a priest even though you have already asked God directly, to forgive you. I told him what a gift it was and what a grace and by the time I finished he was asking if he could go to confession to a Catholic priest. I told him I didn't think so and he was very sad.