April 6, 2026 “Freedom Comes When We Speak!”

The strength of Recovery in our own hearts can feel weak at times. But the strength of Recovery, as others describe it, can be steady and sure. Our hearts may feel uncertain, but the wisdom of a trusted person can guide us.

We know that talking with someone who understands Recovery is important. This could be a peer specialist, a friend, or a spiritual director. When we share and reflect with others, we grow. Step by step, we learn to walk more steadily on our path of Recovery.

Sharing our Recovery journey with a trusted person is not optional—it is needed. We are not meant to be alone. The inner foe within us wants us to stay silent. It tries to deceive us and keep us stuck. But Recovery calls us to do the opposite.

When we are troubled by heavy thoughts, we should not stay silent or isolated. We are called to speak about what is going on inside us with someone safe and wise. When we do this, we begin to break free from those painful and unhelpful thoughts.

Several years ago, I felt overwhelmed by sadness and anxiety. My thoughts were not clear, and my past pain weighed heavily on me. I kept everything inside and pulled away from people who loved me. At last, I could not carry it alone anymore. I reached out and met with a religious deacon over coffee.

As I shared my struggles, he listened with care. After a pause, he gently said, “You have suffered deeply in ways no one should. Now, think of Christ on the cross. None of us will ever suffer as much as He did for the pain of the world.”

He saw my life more clearly than I could. In his clarity, I found peace. It felt as if I were being washed in calm and comfort. In that moment, I accepted my suffering in a new way. When I chose to speak, I found freedom.

When we are struggling, let us reach out to someone who understands Recovery. When we speak and share, hope begins to rise again in our hearts.