March 12, 2026 “Choosing Truth and Love in Recovery!”

When I lead a Recovery group or meet with a peer in Recovery, a theme sometimes appears deception. Many of us are moved by a mix of things. We truly want Recovery. We search our hearts and try to grow. Yet we may also carry some insincerity, selfishness, or bias. This mixture, which can include deception, can exist in Recovery groups, in families, among friends, and inside each of us.

Sometimes people say things about us that are not true. They may twist their words to fit their own plans or feelings about us. It can be very painful when others speak about us in a way that is not honest.

Many of us know the deep sting of slander. It hurts our hearts. But Recovery calls us to answer with love, not with bitterness or anger. Recovery is a way of life. At times, we may feel tempted to walk away from this path. That is why we have the Twelve Steps. They help us support one another and stay on the healing path.

The next time you attend a support group or meet a peer for coffee, take a moment to look them in the eye. They are walking the same path of healing as we are. Our hearts are joined as we travel this road together.

This journey of Recovery is rooted in truth, love, and compassion—for us and for others. It is not built on deceit or dishonesty.

Take a quiet moment today to feel the support of the people in your life. Let their care strengthen your resolve to practice the steps of Recovery and continue walking this healing path together.