I hope wherever you are, you know Recovery is with you right where you are.
Have you ever tried to get a child to take medicine that you knew would help them get better? It can be a real struggle. Did you know that about 42% of people who survive a heart attack do not follow their treatment plan? Our fallen human nature is real, and we see it every day.
So today, let’s gently think about our own resistance to receiving the spiritual, mental, and emotional healing that Recovery offers.
Sometimes we resist Recovery. Yet Recovery changes everything, and it continues to change lives when we choose to cooperate with it. There is nothing greater than the gift of Recovery. If the Twelve Steps had something better to offer, they would have given it to us.
When we commit to Recovery, it is not the time to be vague or half-hearted. Imagine leaving the doctor’s office after receiving a serious diagnosis. We would not write our last wishes using only symbols and riddles, then say to our family, “I hope you figure out what I meant.” Of course not. We would be clear, honest, and intent
Recovery asks us for that same kind of commitment.
For much of my life, my Recovery was lukewarm. That changed about twelve years ago. I opened my heart to God’s presence and admitted that I needed His help to heal. I began paying closer attention at Mass, praying every day, and listening for His will in my life. Little by little, God showed me that He truly desires good things for me. He continues to lead me toward healing.
In what ways are you resisting the good things Recovery wants to give you? Take a moment to identify your spiritual, mental, and emotional needs. Then humbly ask Recovery to help meet those needs each time you take part in a Recovery activity.
It is also helpful to make gratitude part of your Recovery journey. Gratitude opens our eyes to the many blessings Recovery brings into our lives. Thank every person who does even the smallest thing to help you. Each act of kindness is a gift.
Today, you have a choice. Put on the cloak of Recovery. Let it become more than something you do. Let it become the way you live. As you walk with God each day, may your heart remain open to the healing He longs to give you.
1 We believe that Recovery is possible. With courage and hope, we commit to overcoming the internal and external barriers that stand in our way.
2 We believe that a loving God will restore us spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
3 We decrease our human desires in order to hear thevoice of God in our lives.
4 We make a Recovery plan after an honest reflection of our behavior.
5 We share our Recovery plan with God and other people that support us.
6 We surrender to God our suffering, anger, resentments, and other emotions blocking our Recovery.
7 We accept God’s unconditional love and compassion into our lives.
8 We connect with peers in Recovery and invite their presences into our lives.
9 We are imperfect human beings. Make amends to a person when necessary, then release shame, guilt, and other emotions getting in the way of our growth.
10 We continue to review our recovery plan and revise it when necessary.
11 We realize Recovery is not just an intention but alsoaction. Through prayer, reflection, and mindfulness, we seek guidance from God and people in our support network.
12 We are having a spiritual awakening as a result of our Recovery. We are learning to love ourselves and practicing these steps in all of our affairs.
Adapted from
“The Twelve Steps,” Alcoholics Anonymous,
https://www.aa.org
Remember, Recovery is happening right now, in this moment.