January 13

”An infectious smile spreads good will.” Anonymous

This quote seems more appropriate after having just watched the movie Patch Adams. Seeing how this medical student chose to see patients as people first and their condition second gives me hope that others well be able to see addicts in a similar light. I do believe that this is a disease and that I deserve to be treated as a person, with compassion, understanding and respect, if I am to succeed at overcoming the worst of my illness. The quote also reminds me that my road to recovery started with small acts of kindness. A warm reception on a phone line, a kind greeting at my first meeting, the welcome to a group of peers and encouragement to keep coming back. In my recovery today I have those same gifts I can offer back to those who are only beginning their own journey of healing. If I am willing and open, recovery becomes contagious. While I still need to lean on others for support, it happens frequently that others turn to me in times of need. It is a good feeling to know that I can be a pillar for someone else, a beacon of light in their dark and stormy moments. Together, through the steps, recovery is possible.

Affirmation I gain hope that my addiction will be accepted as I have been welcomed into my fellowship. I have a renewed faith in the compassion and love that lives within humankind.