Personal insights into the complex and highly challenging area of addictive behavior can often be an important 'aha' moment for others to directly relate and hopefully help themselves or others. Recently, a user of the 12 Habits program shared her ideas on the I in addiction.
"I am a recovering alcoholic and a very grateful person. For over three decades, I have dedicated myself to healing work for myself and for others. When I first came into AA, completely devoid of self-esteem and hope, I encountered a group of people who didn't judge me. Instead, they surrounded me with love and compassion. Because of my upbringing, I wanted to figure out addiction for myself. At first, I threw away the phone numbers people gave me and tried to fend for myself. I had been taught that to do something right, do it yourself. That lesson did not serve me well in recovery.
After relapsing and becoming very frustrated that an intelligent person like myself couldn't 'get' recovery, I finally started to let other recovering alcoholics help me. They invited me out to lunch, to retreats, and to fun social events. I enjoyed their ability to laugh about our common tendencies. With the beginning of trust in other humans, I felt a circle of strength I had never experienced before. They led me back to spirituality and miraculously to self-acceptance. 'I' alone was a detriment to my own recovery. 'We' together became a path to healing.
Today, I still am a very independent person. However, I have a beautiful group of friends who I confide in. We work together to encourage each other to reach our own highest purpose. Addiction has become a gift." C. C.
This story may help you and shows the power of the habits of Family and Friends, Address Addictive Behaviors, Laughter, Forgiveness, Quieting your Mind, and Gratitude. No finer example of real, sustained well-being.
