May 28

”Fall seven times, stand up eight.” Japanese Proverb

I have slipped and had relapses in my recovery. In those early days after I first admitted that I was a sex addict, the pull of my addictions was still strong and usually won in a contest of wills. What has made the difference is the fact that I have picked myself up out of the dirt after each fall. My persistence has paid off as I gradually accumulated longer periods of sobriety and the temptation to fall back on old behaviours began to diminish in kind. I am certain that I did not stand up of my own accord, at least fully, many of those first times. I felt accountable to my group pretty well from my first meeting. Over time I have gained accountability to my family, my Higher Power, and finally to myself. I no longer desire to be that person I had been in my addiction. I like the changes I have, and feel more and more that I am once again a whole person. I have gained strength and hope each time I have risen anew. My self-esteem and self-worth are improving as I take back my power of decision and move towards having my thoughts, actions and feelings working in harmony. Life has once again become worth living.

Affirmation If I slip or fall, the best thing I can do is pick myself up and find the courage to take that next step forward.