“…recovery from addiction requires resources beyond the capacities of any one individual addict.”

– Life with Hope, first edition, page 8

In recovery, I often hear about acceptance and how this leads to serenity but how I do this is much more of a challenge. The process of working the Steps helps to put my life into perspective by understanding my limitations. I am not the best or the worst person in the world. The grandiosity that fuels the extremes of inflation and deflation are ego-based. The Steps help me be right-sized, knowing my strengths and weaknesses.

When I learn humility by this process, I can feel the grace and dignity that comes with using intelligent spiritual action to deal with my problems. Not having to rely on my limited personal experience filled with anxiety, but rather on the collected wisdom of recovery, takes away the pressure to do it alone.

With help and support, the gifts of working a recovery program, my life becomes serene, based on a spiritual connection with our Higher Power. When I am able to follow the guidance of my Higher Power, my life has meaning, purpose, and serenity.

Final thought: Today, I live my life by accepting who I am because I know that I am not perfect.