“We strive for progress, not perfection.”

– Life with Hope, first edition, page 33

The disease is progressive, but so is recovery. Our book says that recovery is a process, not an event. It would be simpler if there were a certificate or badge, something proving that I’ve arrived—that I am now sober forever. Thank you, I can now put this addiction thing behind me. It doesn’t work that way and thank God it doesn’t. I get to continue deepening my waters and moving in the flow of life. Every time I seek God’s help, I need to knock on the door again. I must knock again to remind myself that I’m still seeking. I’m still in need.

My sobriety strengthens as I remain mindful that I am in recovery. It’s never behind me; if I think that then I get ahead of myself. “More will be revealed” is one of many 12-Step sayings. I’ve heard plenty of old-timers say they are still surprised at how they are continuing to grow into serenity. Their relationships continue to get stronger, they are improving their abilities to forgive, and their ability to love expands beyond where it’s ever been.

Final thought: Even when days are hard, I still know that as long as I stay sober, my recovery will continue to heal me in ways I cannot comprehend today.