I go to many parties and events related to this season but most are recovery related, with no drinking or drug use. I simply enjoy being around people in recovery much more these days. However, at family functions and other situations where there is drinking, my sobriety comes first. If I am finding that I am getting overwhelmed by the situation, I have the right to leave if necessary.
I realized it was time to develop a heightened level of awareness and some strategies to reduce the risk around the holidays. We are all going to find ourselves in situations where alcohol is served so it is important to have a plan or some options ready to deal with the situation.
by Tony A. I start my day, in this general way, making conscious contact with my higher power and devote myself to be of loving service in all of my affairs. This is concluded with a period of quiet time, a spiritual reading and a meditation practice. Then I am ready to start my day. … Continued
Working this Step keeps me grounded in my relationship with the higher power I committed to in Step Three, and then some — it takes that relationship to a deeper place. I tap into courage when scared; strength when worn out; comfort when hurt or lonely; determination when discouraged. Step Eleven is my anchor.
Without meditation and daily review, I can return to the unconscious state where ego rebuilds, and it can take me out of the path I have chosen to follow. There is a Zen saying: “Before enlightenment, chop wood and carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood and carry water.” It tells me that no matter what, I must practice daily.
by Jowita Bydlowska “You make my mom go away. You make me feel hatred,” a kid read out loud from his letter to addiction, a part of an exercise in the Children’s Program at the Renascent Treatment Centre in Toronto. He hugged his mom afterwards with such intensity, it was as if he wanted to get … Continued
