Getting into recovery is sometimes like joining a gang, you have to get beat down to get in. When you finally decide to change your life, you sometimes expect immediate results. You want instant gratification, similar to when you put mind altering substances/chemicals into your body
You will sometimes hear the stories from others that will either make you doubt the possibilities or have you wanting the same things in your life. Either way, the decision is yours. It is up to you how you want your change, good or bad.
Recovery is not a miracle; it is a process of change and redemption. It will take time to balance your life.
When you start socializing with your new friends, going to places with meaning, and becoming a responsible human being your life will change. This takes time.
There are many tools you will need to get you to the enriching side of recovery, including perseverance, acceptance, hope, faith, trust and honesty. These are just a few of the tools, and there are many more available. The best thing is that they are free and they are yours if you want them.
Keep in mind that this takes time, just like any other good things you want in life. As long as you stay on the right path, though, you will get there.
Remember… with faith, hope never dies.
January 15 2012 at 20:20
It is true that there are many tools needed and offered in recovery. It’s a good thing that there is a slogan “One day at a time”. It can be overwhelming when we are first told that we have to change EVERYTHING. Thanks for posting a good article. It reminds us that there is a solution.
January 05 2012 at 16:12
Right on brother….Amen