Working the eighth step doesn’t have to hurt, “We acknowledge our behaviors have impacted our relationships. We list those affected by our behavior and whenever possible become willing to reconcile or thank them for their support during a relapse or mental health crisis.” Working the eighth step requires us to be honest about past mistakes. […]

During my lifetime I have associated with several influencers. Throughout my basketball career, I connected with people both nationally and internationally. I met Stephen M. R. Covey, who wrote the “Speed of Trust”. You may be familiar with his father’s work (Stephen R. Covey), “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People”. There are others too numerous

I belong to a writer’s group titled, “Inklings”. When I began my writing career 4 years ago I was looking for people I could share my writing with and learn what it takes to be an author. I searched on the internet to see what I might find. My search proved to be fruitful and

Sometimes I come to the end of my day full of activities rolling around in my head. I neglected to hold the door open for a person entering the grocery store, when my daughter left our home I did not tell her I love her, I was impatient when helping my father, and remaining silent

I think healing and Recovery are similar to creating a new heaven and earth within my soul. My past will no longer hold me back from becoming the best version of myself. I experienced darkness and suffering for several years. These two traits dominated my mood. Today I experience some joy and happiness which was

If you are not engaged in a 12-step program or another similar format now is the time to develop a relationship with something greater than yourself to help you along the path of wellness. I am learning the fine art of developing a relationship with the 12 steps, drawing me closer to a Higher Power

How do we know if healing is available to us? We are assured of unconditional love by practicing the 12 steps of Recovery. The 12 steps are a gift we have received on our quest to manage our mental health condition, addiction, and trauma. These steps run counter to our belief that this is a

I am sitting in one of my favorite chairs in our living room. The sun is shining on my upper body as the sun penetrates a large window overlooking our backyard. During the past week the word, “Humility” continues to penetrate my heart. Healthy humility is important for spiritual growth. According to Christine Valters Painter,

Healing occurs at different levels. There is physical healing after an accident or illness. Mental healing due to brain chemistry. Emotional due to trauma. Finally, there is spiritual healing due to feeling abandoned by God. In the early 90s, I was driving on the highway returning from a trip to the grocery store. I approached

What happens when we leave healing from a mental health condition, addiction, and trauma? My lived experience with a mental health condition is the greatest teacher. Ten years ago my heart was all in as I engaged in several activities to manage my condition. I participated in therapy, support groups, ate relatively healthy foods, exercised,