I hope wherever you are, you know Recovery is with you right where you are.
During my devotional reading this morning, three thoughts came to mind: the connection between the mind and heart, mercy, and saying “yes.”
Thomas Aquinas had one of the greatest minds in history, yet he understood two important truths. First, the longest journey we make is from the head to the heart. Second, there is a great difference between knowing about God (Recovery) and truly knowing God (Recovery).
In her journal, Helena Kowalska (Faustina) wrote that all grace flows from mercy and that God’s mercy is especially present at the end of life. She encouraged us never to doubt God’s goodness. Even when our shortcomings seem as dark as night, God’s mercy is greater. If we open the door of our hearts even a little, God’s grace can enter, and He will do the rest.
One fruit of faith is understanding the power of our “yes.” Free will is a gift and the foundation of love. Every time we say “yes” to what is good, we are changed. Our choices shape who we become. Do we bring joy to others? Are people glad when we come to visit?
Am I living from my mind alone, or am I also living from my heart? I remain a man deeply devoted to Recovery. Each day, I try to connect my mind and heart, where spiritual wisdom and joy grow.
If Recovery is calling us to act, it is important not to delay. For many years, I carried anger and bitterness toward my parents because of the physical abuse I experienced as a child. Ten years ago, I finally forgave them. Mercy became compassion in my heart and a desire to deepen my relationship with them. That act of forgiveness brought peace and freedom.
Recovery calls us to live with a spiritual sense of urgency. Every day, people lose hope and feel forgotten, invisible, and unloved. I remember feeling that way during my own Recovery journey. Recovery teaches us to love God (our Higher Power) and our neighbors with compassion and purpose. With every small “yes” we give, our spiritual senses are awakened, restored, and strengthened.
Recovery invites us to connect our minds and hearts, release anger and bitterness, and seek mercy for ourselves and others. When we do, we find peace. Each “yes” to Recovery helps us rise from darkness into healing, hope, and new life.
Why is it important to seek Recovery in our lives? Because Recovery helps us move from knowledge to wisdom, from resentment to mercy, and from fear to love. It awakens the best within us and leads us toward a life filled with peace, purpose, and hope.