Identify and articulate sins

[Sidecastle]

I have prayed a lot about this but I have great difficulty in preparing for confession. I know I’m a sinner like everyone else but when I go through the prepared exams of conscience I cannot identify my sins. I also have a problem articulating them eg I can say I don’t pray enough and I have said that but what is enough? A priest has chuckled at this before. In many ways it would be easier if I had mortal sins! Does anyone else have this problem?

 

[CRV]

I think the simplest way is to just say what you did or didn’t do. E.g. I spoke unkindly to another; I failed to offer my help when I easily could; I don’t pray enough as I put other things before God - tv/sport/reading/hobbies/friends/social activities; I’ve failed to apologize when I should; I’ve been selfish; jealousy. I’m sure you get the idea.