“We are all unique examples of how the program works, each of us with our distinct gifts to share.”

– Life with Hope, second edition, page 69

I made this list when asked, “How do you define recovery?”
A willingness to continue to go to meetings,
A willingness to continue to work the Steps,
Not being unconsciously bound to old patterns,
Not reacting in old ways,
Giving myself time and permission to feel my feelings,
Making choices based on the present,
Being able to take chances and to risk,
Being open and vulnerable with other people,
Allowing myself to be happy, joyous and free,
Being one in a community with other addicts,
Reaching out to my sponsor or a friend when needed,
Being willing to have a sponsor and be a sponsor,
Using the tools of daily prayer and meditation,
Never feeling alone anymore,
Knowing I have a Higher Power, even if I can’t define it, and
Using all the recovery tools in my spiritual toolkit.

Final thought: Today, and every day, my recovery is the priority of my life; without it, I may not have a life.