May 7, 2026 “Living Fully Through Recovery!”

We are only on this earth for a short time. That is why the joy that comes from Recovery is very different from the temporary pleasures and pain of this world. Recovery gives us a deeper kind of happiness. It allows us to have peace even during times of suffering.

If someone asked me, “What is it that you truly want?” I would answer, “Recovery.” Deep down, this is what many people with mental health or substance misuse struggles long for. Behind the desire for a new car, nice clothes, a promotion, comfort, or success is often a deeper desire to heal. We are hungry for something more lasting and complete.

Many people use the phrase, “Live like you were dying.” But what if we changed it to say, “Live as if Recovery will lead you to live life to the fullest”?

If we knew we had only five years left to live, what would we make sure to do during that time to strengthen our Recovery? Recovery longs to fill our lives with meaning and purpose. When we allow Recovery to guide us, we begin to see more truth, beauty, and goodness around us. We also receive the grace and strength needed to face life’s struggles and suffering.

Living with this awareness can lead us to become more loving, disciplined, generous, hopeful, and compassionate toward ourselves and others.

Which quarter of life are we in?
If you are under twenty years old, you are in the first quarter of life. Ages twenty-one to forty are the second quarter. Ages forty-one to sixty are the third quarter. Ages sixty-one to eighty are in the fourth quarter. And if you are over eighty, you are living in extra time.

I am in the fourth quarter of my life. It is good for me to stay mindful of Recovery. This is not something to fear or obsess over, but something to live with intention each day. This awareness helps guide me to practice the 12 Steps in all areas of my life.

The gift of Recovery is a blessing. As our Recovery grows, we begin to see more and more miracles, until one day we realize that Recovery itself is a miracle.

Which quarter of life are you in?

What will you do during this season of life to grow stronger in your Recovery?