@jamessweasyI don’t talk about recovery 24/7 like I used to, here’s why 👇🏻 #AddictionRecovery #fyp #MindsetMatters #recoverytok #motivation♬ original sound – Sweasy
Somebody commented on a post, saying, “Don’t forget about the recovery people.” Perhaps it was a business or real estate post, but the reminder was clear: don’t overlook the recovery side of things. That’s a valid point. If you’re in addiction recovery, it’s crucial not to forget where you came from. I, for instance, was once in a homeless shelter, lying on a concrete floor, sweating through withdrawal from heroin and alcohol. I’ll never forget that experience. However, many people do forget their roots, and that’s a common issue.
It’s easy to become grandiose or overly “bougie,” but let’s consider something important about 12-step recovery programs. The first half of the first step—out of twelve—is the only part that directly addresses the removal of drugs and alcohol: “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol and that our lives had become unmanageable.” That’s it. The remaining eleven and a half steps focus on personal growth and transformation.
It’s common to see someone in recovery become successful—maybe they’re running a thriving business or buying a new car. I don’t personally post pictures of flashy new cars, but some people do, and that’s fine. Yet, when they share their success, you’ll often see comments from others in the recovery community saying things like, “Don’t forget where you came from,” or “That’s not humble.” These remarks can imply a lack of humility or grounding.
Here’s the thing: a 12-step recovery program is a spiritual program of action designed to help you achieve a fulfilling life. It’s meant to empower you to succeed, provide for your family, go on vacations, buy a nice car, and retire happily. Life’s too short to settle for less. If you work hard and become successful enough to enjoy nice things, that’s okay. However, some in the recovery community might misinterpret this success as a lack of humility.
It’s important to remember that the first half of the first step is the only part focused on removing drugs and alcohol. The other eleven and a half steps provide a framework for living—a design to help you thrive and succeed, just like anyone else.
~Sweasy
Recent Comments