Category: Recovery

Shallow Slogans or Deep Wisdom?

A closer look at 10 common phrases used in recovery Addicts and alkies are often skeptical about the brief, pithy sayings we throw around in 12-step programs. The slogans seem to dilute the complicated issues of recovery down to stock, almost  clichéd phrases. Yet, if you spend any time in Alano Club rooms, or even …

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Beautifully Broken

Perfectionist. Smart. Beautiful. These are a few of the many positive words that I was known by as a young teenager. On the outside, I was the girl who seemed like she had it all. The girl who had great friends, a boyfriend, was a cheerleader, and more. However, while the outward appearance and demeanor …

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How Scent Can Aid in Recovery

Smell is the strongest of our human senses. That makes it both a gift and a curse. If you want to inhale the beautiful, soft scent of the newest rose in your garden, it’s a gift; but if you’re passing the sewage treatment center, well, think again! In the book, Perfume: The Story of a …

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A Sponsor: Don’t Leave Home Without One

Many years ago in the late 70s, American Express had an ad about their credit card and their hopes for people who had one of their cards – “Don’t leave home without it.” With their credit card, a person would never be in a situation where if the spirit moved them to make a purchase, …

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Recovery Through the Power of We

As a veteran of the 12 Step groups, I continue to be amazed by the wisdom contained within the 12 Steps. I am struck by the new awarenesses that emerge in my Wednesday night group as we share reflections and experiences week after week. Such discussions never get old. Each Step is like a seed …

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Progress Not Perfection

In the 4th Edition of Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of How Many Thousands of Men and Women Have Recovered from Alcoholism– also known as The Big Book – there is a phrase which has captured both my interest and imagination around issues of recovery for many years: “We claim spiritual progress, not spiritual perfection.” Often …

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