“We practice spiritual principles, not religion.”

– Life with Hope, first edition, page 9

The ability to practice the spiritual principles of my program does not depend solely on any religious beliefs rooted in the acceptance of an all-knowing, all powerful deity. The path to a spiritual awakening can also be found in the healing and growth of my “Inner-Spirit” by living in a “Good Orderly Direction.” I came into recovery suffering from low self-esteem and self-loathing. Not only had my addiction to marijuana isolated me from society, but it also isolated me from a thoughtful awareness of my own individual identity, self-worth, and values. I had no ability to accept or forgive my own human frailties. My addiction to marijuana only fed the negative conceptions I had of myself as being a worthless failure. My spirits were sputtering flames which cast no warmth or light on anything around me.

By practicing the spiritual principles of the program, I learned to treat myself and others with kindness, fairness, acceptance, tolerance, and love. Like a cheerleader at a spirit rally who stands before the crowd seemingly confident, happy, and enthusiastic about their own lives and abilities, a spiritually healthy person leads by example, demonstrating to others through their daily actions and interactions, that they have gained a positive conception of themselves as functioning, productive, self-aware members of the fellowship and society. I have become a person who does not think less of myself, but thinks of myself less.

Final thought: Today, let me practice healing my Inner Spirit by recognizing in myself and others our common humanity, value, and inherent self-worth.