Larry Winter

October 10th was World Mental Health Day—a time for all people, including those in faith communities like the Catholic Church, to pause and reflect on healing and hope. It’s an opportunity to strengthen our care for those who struggle emotionally, mentally, or behaviorally, and to offer them spiritual support and compassion Saint Kateri Tekakwitha (1656–1680) […]

When we search for Recovery, we discover the presence of God—our Higher Power—waiting for us. Recovery does not hide when we are looking for healing. It is endlessly compassionate and never turns away from giving mercy. The beauty of Recovery shines in its kindness and its deep care for us. It always gives more than

Mental health struggles and substance misuse are not new. The worries we carry can feel heavy, and the weight of suffering is as old as time. When depression follows us like smoke from a campfire, Recovery reminds us that the smoke will not last forever. Our feelings do not tell the whole truth about our

Recovery is a safe place for those of us struggling with mental health and substance misuse. It is also a well of delight for those who drink deeply from its promise. When we keep our eyes on Recovery, life becomes clearer. Our struggles find answers, and healing shines through like light breaking the darkness. Recovery

When we commit to Recovery, we begin to see how deep its compassion truly runs. It never turns away a hungry heart. Recovery will not let us be crushed by depression or anxiety. True security is found through Recovery alone. We don’t need fancy clothes or shiny awards to live by the 12 Steps. The

Recovery is about making a loving pivot—a turn in the direction of healing and wholeness. Along this road, we can use seven indicators to guide and measure our growth. 1. Vibrant Support GroupWe gather with others in programs like the 12 Steps or other recovery paths that help us grow in wisdom and strength. 2.

Recovery has great power to save and heal us. It teaches us how to grow a wise and peaceful mind. It feeds our hearts and spirits so that we never go hungry or thirsty. Recovery shelters us from life’s harsh storms and gently leads us down roads of calm and serenity. Recovery is the path

Ten years ago, my life was very dark. At home, I prayed for God’s strength to lift me out of my sadness and anxiety. Sometimes, I went to church, begging Him to take away my suffering. In quiet moments, I felt God whisper that healing would come in His time, not mine. Others in Recovery

Do we believe in guardian angels? Merriam-Webster defines a guardian as someone who has the care of another person or their property. A guardian can protect, defend, and guide. In Recovery, this image of guardianship beautifully reflects the role of guardian angels. The 12-steps are like messengers—guides placed in our lives to protect us and

The 12-step process was first written in the 1930s for people struggling with substance misuse. Since then, many groups have adapted the steps—such as Depressed Anonymous, and even the format I’ve written for this blog and the support group I help lead. These steps continue to be the guide I use to manage my own