“We have received a gift that, in fact, amounts to a new state of being. We realize that our potential is limitless. We now have the tools to help us grow.”

– Life with Hope, first edition, page 63

I thought I had a beautiful garden. It was amazing how I did nothing and the weeds grew to create greens, yellows, purples, oranges, and browns. I loved all the natural colors, but was powerless over their spread. A fellow lover of gardens, my neighbor, invited me over to show me hers. It was something I could have never imagined. There were beautiful flowers, bushes, trees, and plants.

I wanted what she had and saw how narrow my vision had become. I did not know where to start. She showed me where to go to get help. I met others there who loved the beauty of the natural world. I met fellows who could show me how to grow my garden. I explored different types of flowers and plants, was shown how they flourish, and introduced soils for their foundations.

I began to show up here every week to accept all the experience I could to grow my garden. I found tools here, steps to bringing life into my garden, and support and guidance when my plants would not thrive. My garden is beautiful today. It’s not always what I want, but exactly what I need. Some plants don’t do well in my garden while others love the light in my yard. I have to remember to work at my recovery every day and water my garden.

Now with strength and experience of my own, I can share this with others and spread hope that they too can have hope to grow a garden of their own. This is my recovery.

Final thought: Today, I remember I need meetings, sober fellows, a sponsor, the Steps, slogans, and literature to grow.