December 17, 2025 “Joy Grows When We Give!”

I hope wherever you are, you know Recovery is with you—right where you are.

Many of us have heard the words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” These words remind me of my early days in Recovery. I went to support groups, attended therapy, and shared my struggles with family and friends. I took in many thoughts and lessons. But I often failed to take action on the wisdom I was given.

Today, I am in a very different place. I have a plan of care that I follow each day. Joy grows deeper when we open our hands and move beyond ourselves. Receiving can bring short-term happiness, but giving builds lasting joy.

This has been true for me. I serve others by writing about my Recovery, leading a support group, sharing a daily blog, answering emails, and preparing my next book, A Daily Devotional. Blessings flow most freely when love is poured out, not stored up. Giving connects us to the heart of the 12 Steps.

At times in Recovery, we can become so focused on our own pain that we forget the people close to us. This is why giving matters. Sometimes the greatest gift is patience when we feel irritated or anxious, we can offer forgiveness instead of hanging onto bitterness, or we can notice and care for someone others overlook.

Giving is not a duty. It grows from our relationship with Recovery. Joy is waiting to be released through our giving, as Recovery invites us to open our arms and reach out to others.

A Simple Reflection
Loving God, thank you for being the giver of every good gift. Teach me to give with a joyful heart, without fear or expectation. Help me see the needs around me and respond with love and compassion. May my generosity bring hope to others and draw them closer to you. Amen.
(From brucedownes.org)

Remember, Recovery is here—right now, in this moment.
Let’s embrace it together.