May 21

”There’s only one corner of the universe that you can be certain of improving, and that’s your own self.” Aldous Huxley

Certain times of the year are ripe opportunities for reflection. Birthdays, major holidays, and other such anniversaries can be occasions to take a longer look back at where I have been, where I am now, and even where I am headed. It`s good medicine for me to recall how much progress I have made since choosing the path of recovery. It is equally important to temper this by reviewing my circles and looking at where I want to go. My life certainly looks different and a whole lot brighter, than it was a couple years ago. I certainly could not have seen then where I have made it to today, nor all that I have been through along the way. And all this gives me great hope that there are many more wondrous things awaiting me down the road that right now I am completely ignorant about. This prescription of turning my will and my life over to a Higher Power of my understanding started with a shaky foundation. Yet it has proven time and time again to be the better path, and continues to lead me in a direction of happiness and fulfillment, without my addiction taking charge of my life. My new self-care in working the steps is bringing me towards the person I always knew I could be.

Affirmation I will continue to put my trust in my Higher Power to lead me to the right choice, the right path, and doing His will.

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.