January 30, 2026 “Meeting Triggers with Grace!”

Even after many years in Recovery, some thoughts and feelings can still be triggered. I am currently working on publishing my second book. During the first round of edits, the editor offered helpful feedback about my grammar, and the suggestions made sense to me.

In the second round of edits, I accidentally added some of the old grammar back into the book. The publisher reminded me that I had already approved the editor’s changes. That moment triggered something in me.

I became very critical of myself for forgetting that I had approved the manuscript. Along with that criticism, feelings of shame quietly appeared.

How did I cope with this trigger? First, I noticed and named the feeling. I also realized it was less intense than it would have been ten years ago. Next, I chose curiosity instead of spending a whole week blaming myself. I practiced gentle self-talk, reminding myself to show compassion and love, and to turn it over to God.

Because of a serious episode of depression and anxiety ten years ago, my memory was affected. This can be hard to accept, especially since my mind was once very sharp. Still, I am learning to meet this truth with kindness.

Triggers may return from time to time. This seems to be part of their nature. I encourage us to prepare for them ahead of time. When we have a plan, we are better able to respond with care and reduce the impact on our well-being.