Larry Winter

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

Recovery, your character never changes. You have healed us, and you will continue to heal us. At times, we underestimate your strength and try to go our own way. Yet you wait patiently, ready to welcome us back with mercy and compassion that never run out. When we place our hope in your faithfulness, we

This past weekend, we attended a wedding reception for one of our relatives. My wife, sister-in-law, and I were sitting at a picnic table, soaking up the warmth of the sun. A woman joined us, and we soon learned that she was the bride’s aunt. We chatted about many things, the kind of small talk

Sharing our struggles with mental health or substance misuse can feel overwhelming. We wonder, What do people think about me? Some may see courage, others may judge, and a few may misunderstand. Juan once asked his friends, “Who do people say that I am?” The answers were mixed—some kind, some hurtful. But one voice stood

Fall shows us how leaves change color, fall to the earth, and feed the soil. In the same way, Recovery teaches us to hold on to what nourishes us and to let go of what no longer serves our healing. Each of us has a unique Recovery path. What strengthens one person may not help

Your directions shine with wisdom for health and healing. The 12 Steps are not rigid rules, like a basketball player lining up at the free-throw line. Instead, we see how these principles flow beautifully with your spirit of light and love. Recovery, you are filled with compassion and mercy. You are steady and consistent with

Imagine us gathered together in one place. Suddenly, it feels as though a mighty wind fills the room, and flames of fire gently rest upon each of us. In that moment, we agree—Recovery is pouring its spirit upon us. The Twelve Steps promise that this will happen, and as we walk faithfully through them, we

Recovery embraces opposites: we can be strong and gentle, desire solitude yet seek connection, share openly while keeping some things private, or disagree and remain friends. Through self-awareness, we notice how these contrasts influence both ourselves and others. Seeing another’s perspective can shift our thinking when the facts support it. Practicing this approach can ease

We are standing on the shore of the Mississippi. Recovery is so much bigger than what is written in the 12 steps or in any book. There are parts of it we can’t put into words, yet they help us see what Recovery can really do in our lives. That thought makes us pause. We