Larry Winter

Healing stirs powerful emotions and urges that can cloud our sense of reality. But hidden in those moments are sacred clues to our wholeness. We may grieve our missteps, yet they are part of the journey—like failed experiments that teach more than success. To truly heal, we must quiet the noise. The soul speaks only […]

From an early age, we were taught to say “thank you.” More than simple manners, these words become a reflection of kindness—toward one another and toward God, our Higher Power. Faith invites us to give thanks for the blessings we have received. Gratitude is not only an act of the soul, but also a gift

Sometimes our image of Recovery—it’s dying, healing, and rising into new life—is like a plane in the sky ascending to 30,000 feet. The control tower sends occasional directions… but from a distance. Recovery begins with dying to an old way of living and then ascending to a new way of functioning. Recovery teaches us that

Interpersonal relationships are a gift, yet they can be challenging when unresolved trauma, mental health struggles, or unhealthy behaviors remain. Healthy relationships grow through mindful communication: ask for help, share opinions with presence, say “no” calmly, avoid people-pleasing, and prioritize healing. Our desire for connection is woven into our minds, hearts, and souls. We are

We have been watching the person in Recovery on the shore with quiet wonder since the moment we first saw her. Now she moves quickly toward us, calm and steady. Gently, she takes one of our friends by the shoulders, and he says, “It is a person in Recovery.” The look on our faces is

We’re on the road, heading home, feeling drained and unsupported. The voice on the radio suggests, “Connect with God—a higher power—and you’ll never feel empty inside.” The words stir a mix of doubt and restlessness. Four hours of driving usually calms our anxious mood. But now, only miles from home, emptiness lingers. John exhales, half-laughing.

The eagle, known for its ability to soar high and see far, reminds us of what Recovery can offer—a clear vision of healing and hope. Each step of Recovery takes us deeper. From the very beginning, these steps gently guide us toward freedom: In the beginning was the step, and the steps held the promise

There are five of us at Peter’s house, in a small fishing village along the Mississippi River. The sun drifts toward the horizon. The trees and wildflowers are lush, yet the mood is heavy. Peter, the take-charge one, finally speaks. His boat and gear are ready on the shore. “I’m going fishing. Anyone want to

Picture us in a village, 90 miles from home, gathered with five peers in Recovery. Peter has welcomed us into his house for a meal. Normally, we’re a lively group, but today the air feels heavy. We sit quietly, weighed down by discouragement and clouded thoughts, as if hope has slipped away. Looking at us

Recovery reminds us of something profoundly simple yet deeply challenging: love. Love for ourselves, and love for one another. To love ourselves is to accept that we are worthy, to be gentle with our mistakes, and to honor the courage it takes to keep showing up. In loving ourselves, we learn compassion, vulnerability, and gratitude