January 25

”Education is a matter of building bridges.” Anonymous

I have learned and continue to learn a great deal in recovery. The subject that I have learned the most about is probably me. In working my program, I have had to get know myself all over again. This is part of what I need to do to learn to be comfortable in my own skin again and to be able to trust and have faith in my abilities. The most crucial bridges I have been rebuilding are the one that connects my head to my heart, and the other that connects me to my Higher Power. Both of these were severely damaged by my addiction, less by direct attack than by simple neglect and lack of maintenance. My teachers have been my peers in the program, family, friends, and counsellors – in short, anyone I have been willing to listen to. There are certainly many other things I have had to learn as I deal with the consequences of my behaviour and the effects that it has had on all those connected to my life. Some of these have been more pleasant than others.  Dealing with loss, grief, and divorce are not places I really wanted to learn, but are things I have had to face. Dealing with my feelings, my ager, rejection, loneliness are also draining and unpleasant, but required in order to help me regain a sense of emotional balance.

Affirmation If I remain open and teachable, I know the lessons I learn, even though they may not be enjoyable, will help me to continue making progress in my journey of recovery.