Throughout September we have been recognizing Recovery and addiction, September is also Suicide Prevention month. I am using this last day of September to define stigma, its impact on us, and what we can do about it. Stigma is a complex of negative attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that lead to discrimination against us. I have […]

Our reflection passage for today is a bit challenging. It is more difficult for us to commit to a lifestyle of Recovery than it is for people to support our healing. We are asked to give up much to follow the Recovery steps. No one gives up shame, guilt, addiction, or pain for the sake

Who is the richest person I ever met? The answer is my late grandfather. He owned a supper club and shoe repair shop in our town of 900 people. When I was a boy I enjoyed walking three blocks from my home to his place of business. Behind the bar was a basket of candy

Last evening, bookstore owner Ann Vogl invited me to read from my book and facilitate a discussion about mental health challenges, addiction, and trauma https://dragontalebooks.store/. This invitation by Ann was her way of recognizing September as Suicide Prevention, Recovery, and Addiction Month. I am including a YouTube video of my presentation. Behind me is a

Why do we celebrate the Higher Power (God for me), Kings, and Queens in our present and past traditions? First, because of the virtue (behavior showing high moral standards) of being the best version of ourselves. Also, it shows those who rule and are in authority how they can use their authority for the common

Have you ever sat and listened to a wise tale? I remember growing up attending a family event. My uncle was obsessed with fishing especially after he retired. He shared with us his various catches and was free to tell us his fish stories. He told us he was on a boat with several other

If we observe a Potterer working at their wheel and it turns out wrong they will start all over again to get the exact shape they want. The message Recovery has for the Potterer at the wheel is clear. As the Potterer has total control over their clay and makes of it what they will,

Recovery is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds one pearl of great price he sells everything he has to buy that one treasure. So what is the treasure I am speaking about? As we reflect on Recovery and healing today faith is the great pearl that changes our lives. Faith invites

There was a coach who recruited talented basketball players for his team. With so many outstanding players it wasn’t easy to find playing time for each. One night after a game two men who supported the team financially told a couple of the players they should be playing more. The players developed a dark attitude

Who are the people in our lives we consider healing witnesses, they authored in welcoming us to Recovery? Three different components define welcoming: 1. We were invited into their lives. 2. We listened to them attentively. 3. Believing they will help us gain insight into Recovery and share their journey toward hope, healing, and health.