July 8

”The stars are constantly shining, but we often do not see them until the dark hours.” Earl Riney

I know I am a natural at seeing the negative in myself and situations that I am in but have a much harder time trying to see the bright side. Yet I can readily do this for someone else. Some days I wonder why I can’t simply look in the mirror and do likewise; it would be a nice chance to follow my own advice. The truth of the matter is that I spent too many years in my addiction, feeling less than. All the shame gave me the impression that I was broken, I was bad, and I was just built to do things wrong. That is a hard preconception of myself to change. I am learning, slowly, to find the positive, the strengths, talents and abilities that can be used to lead a better, healthier life. I feel less ashamed and putting a name to my issue has helped be to realize that I was not born flawed, not destined to be an addict. Rather I have the capacity to practice good moral behaviour, or less than desirable ones, yet it is a choice. My addiction negatively influenced my ability to make good decisions. Staying sober by working the program and reconnecting to my spiritual power will restore my capacity to make better decisions. The good and the bad in me are always present. My goal in recovery is to use the tools to stay on the right path and to believe in the power greater than myself that can restore me to sanity.

Affirmation Just for today I will focus on my strengths and not worry about my flaws. I can take pride in my talents and abilities.