Earlier today, I listened to a daily devotional by Bruce Downes, “The Catholic Guy.” His message spoke directly to those of us in Recovery. We all make plans for our lives—but do we include God in them? When we do, God may sometimes ask us to change direction. When I was in graduate school studying […]

Hope can feel fragile-like building a home with straw; in any moment it could be blown away, leaving us homeless. Actually, hope is more like a home built on top of a cement foundation. For the most part, we have confidence that the foundation will withstand any of nature’s circumstances. Hope that is entrenched in

When someone rings our doorbell and we go to see who it is, how do we greet them? Many of us might smile and say, “Come on in.” In life, when we focus only on what we lack, things can feel hopeless. The anxiety of not knowing what’s next, and the pain we can’t seem

Each week, I set aside twenty minutes a day to practice mindful meditation. I began this habit after my last major episode of depression. Last fall, I took a six-week seminar that taught me how to use these techniques in my daily life. Earlier this week, my coach focused on pain and suffering. She asked

Yesterday, I attended a healing service at my Catholic church. I  decided to attend because of my mental and physical struggles.The experience touched my heart and soul in a deep and beautiful way. Have you ever taken part in something like that? The most powerful moment came when a lay minister gently placed their hands

We live in a world fighting scarcity on several levels-emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually-Recovery freely gives alot of abundance feeling like a foreign concept. Recovery does not give us plenty to survive the moments in our lives, it gives more than we need. Where we are starving for peace, Recovery grants it freely. Where we

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