Have you ever dropped in on a wave, only to wipe out face-first? Or maybe you have been stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic on the H-1 after a long shift, wishing you could just restart the whole day?

We all wipe out. We all have moments—whether in the classroom, the office, or at home—where we are not the best version of ourselves.

In the spiritual life, we have a way to get back on the board and paddle back out. It is called Confession.

Why is it Scary?

Let's be honest. Going to Confession can feel terrifying. Walking into a small room and telling another person (a priest) the worst things you have done is not exactly most people's idea of a fun weekend.

You might worry:

• "What if the priest judges me?"
• "What if I cry?"
• "What if I forget what to say?"

Here is the truth. The priest is not there to judge you. He is there to represent Jesus. When you hear those words of forgiveness, it is actually Jesus forgiving you. And trust me, the priest has heard it all before. Your sins will not shock him.

The Koko Head Backpack

Imagine you are hiking up the Koko Head stairs. It is hot, the sun is beating down, and your legs are already burning.

Now, imagine putting a heavy lava rock in your backpack every time you tell a lie, gossip about a coworker, cheat on a test, or snap at your spouse.

At first, a few rocks are not a big deal. But by the time you reach the steep bridge section, that backpack gets heavy. It hurts your shoulders. It slows you down. It makes the hike miserable, and you miss out on the beautiful view at the top.

Sin is like those rocks. It weighs down our souls. Confession is the moment you dump out the backpack. You walk out of there feeling lighter, faster, and freer.

How to Go to Confession (Without Freaking Out)

If it has been a while (or if it is your first time), here is a simple game plan.

1. The Prep Work (Examination of Conscience)

Before you go in, take a few minutes to think. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see where you wiped out.

• Did I lose my temper in traffic on the Pali?
• Was I honest in my business dealings or schoolwork?
• Did I miss Mass for a beach day or a game?
• Have I been holding a grudge against a family member?

Be honest with yourself.

2. The Greeting

Go into the confessional. You can kneel behind the screen (anonymous) or sit face-to-face. Start by saying:

"Bless me Father, for I have sinned. It has been [how long] since my last confession."

3. The Dump

List your sins. Keep it simple. You do not need to tell a long story with background details. Just say what you did and, if you can, how many times (or just say "a few times" or "often").

4. The Advice and Penance

The priest might give you a little advice. Then, he will give you a "penance." This is usually a few prayers to say or a good deed to do. It shows you are sincere about changing.

5. The Act of Contrition

You will pray a prayer telling God you are sorry. If you do not have it memorized, do not panic. Ask the priest to help, or bring a cheat sheet. It usually goes like this:

"O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee..."

6. The Best Part (Absolution)

The priest will raise his hand and say the prayer of Absolution. At the end, he says, "I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."

Make the Sign of the Cross and say, "Amen."

The Post-Surf Stoke

When you walk out of the confessional, your soul is literally brand new. That heavy backpack is gone. It is the ultimate spiritual "Pau Hana"—the work is done, the burden is lifted, and you can rest.

Do not be afraid of this sacrament. Jesus is waiting there, not to scold you, but to welcome you back with Aloha.