Another Confession Question

[Byzantine]

In addition to the scenarios I posted in my first Confession question, there is also this one:

I confessed not removing myself from a temptation, but then realized it might damage the reputations of those whom I was with (my pastor probably knew whom I was with), so I added in that it probably wouldn't have tempted anyone besides me/those like me. I don't know that it occurred to me that it was a lie; in fact, it might not be. As in the other question, does this seem like sacrilege or scrupulosity?

[TeresaBenedicta]

+JM

Dear Friend,

I've read through many of your questions and posts both here and elsewhere on phatmass. It occurs to me to ask whether you have a spiritual director? If you don't, I would highly encourage you to seek one out. He will be able to answer all of these sorts of questions for you, and more than likely, help ease your mind, which tends toward scrupulosity.

To answer this specific question: If you cannot clearly and immediately recognize your statement as a lie (which, judging by your comment "in fact, it might not be"), then there is nothing to worry about. In general, I would also add that your confession is under the seal. Sin can be communal and our confession of a particular sin might implicate others... but be at peace that the priest is not concerned, nor is he making connections (or making tabs of who to check up on!). He is concerned with your soul. He is trained to compartmentalize what he hears in confession... in fact, many priests have told me that they often forget what was confessed immediately after the penitent is gone! I mean- think about how many confessions they hear! And there is also a grace given to them that enables them to live not only the law of the seal, but also the spirit. I'm not saying that you should use names when you confess- certainly not!- but to not worry about whether a priest will think of a specific person when you confess.