"Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others."
A tranquil mind is the fist requisite for good judgment. Good timing is important in making amends. What is courage? Prudence means taking calculated chances. Amends begin when we join A.A. Peace of mind cannot be brought at the expense of others. Need for discretion. Readiness to take consequences of our past and to take responsibility for well-being of others is the spirit of Step Nine.
We followed this up in Step Nine by making direct amends to those concerned, except when it would injure them or other people.