Each day you remain abstinent is another successful day whether it feels like it or not. Be proud of yourself, give yourself a pat on the back. We are our own worst critics. Stop comparing yourself to others. What you see on the outside is not necessarily what you could see on the inside. Remember you never know what goes on behind closed doors. We each have our secrets to keep.
What we present to the world is a well developed mask. We show others what we want them to see or at least think we do. There are individuals with time in recovery who see through that mask, may demonstrate an understanding and compassion for where you are. Get their number. Meet those who have compassion and understanding for newly recovering individuals. This is assuming you are attending recovery meetings like 12-step groups. If you are not going yet, get yourself there. Call one of the hot-lines listed on the Emergency & Recovery Resources page.
Recovery is about progress not perfection. What you spent years learning to do will take years learning to undo. If you are diligent the tools to begin this part of your journey will be gifted almost immediately. But remember not everyone has the compassion, insight, and understanding to help you traverse the traps of early recovery. Be patient the right teacher will come along, there are many with time in recovery that will be of help. Even those who do not show compassion can be of great help. Learn from everyone, keep an open mind, face the person who intimidates you, shake his or her hand and introduce yourself. The response you receive will astound you.
Progress not perfection is about taking one more step, doing the next indicated thing even when you feel like quitting, take the next step. Remember your reminders. Write something that will encourage you. Find pictures of those things that matter most to you and tape them to the back of the front door with a note that offers you encouragement. This is the last thing you see on your way to work. If you have a car, post another one on the back side of your visor, when you lower the visor there it is. At work put one in your top or center drawer, on your desk pad, somewhere you will see it. Put a picture in a frame with your note written directly on it. Find a creative way to remind yourself of the journey. You are not expected to be perfect, just make progress.
Write yourself love notes, inspirational phrases, the way you would make a shopping or task list. Make this list about you, the love you deserve, your talents, strengths, what ever your imagination comes up with. Being loving to you.
Most of all remember you are not on this road alone. The Divine Universe is available, always with you. Listen to the music it plays for your soul. Sing and dance like the world is your stage. Let no one stop you from your journey.
Blessed be. May we meet again.
Connie S Owens/Kirkpatrick is an ordained minister and a Kundalini/Practical Reiki Master. Connie holds a masters degree in psychology, has 20 years experience working with women and men in early recovery of substance abuse.
Connie resides in Southern California in a small rural community near the border of Mexico. She spends her time researching the latest in alternative healing, spending time with her pets, walking and communing with the world around her.
Connie believes in human rights, we are equal, and have the right to be treated with dignity and fairness. Connie signs and promotes petitions and other activist campaigns that further this belief.
Priestess Connie is her title. One she choose with pride. A priestess is a female version of a priest, one who is authorized to perform ceremonies such as weddings, funerals, baptisms, and other sacred ceremonies.
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