The joy of witnessing recovery in the lives of fellow survivors is truly wonderful. Today’s example is from a man I will refer to as Mr. E. His recovery is occurring in multiple paradigms and he is doing well it seems. Physical, he is sober several months and feeling more confident about his recovery. Social, he had the courage to see a young lady for dinner with friends and learned about what he knows about dating and would like to improve. (Good Job!) Financial, he paid the check for everyone? {TILT!} That is what happens when you are too rough with an old pin ball game by, thumping, kicking, pushing or otherwise attempting too control the course of the “BALL!”{TILT!} You loose your turn!
Control is the power word here. Why did Mr. E have to pay the check? To impress his date? He invited everyone out so he felt responsible? Needed to be “A big spender” to gain self esteem? All possibilities?
Step 10 encourages us “TO LOOK BACK AT OUR BEHAVIOR AND IF NO DAMAGE WAS DONE TO ANY PRINCIPLE AND WE FEEL GOOD ABOUT OUR CHOICES AND ACTIONS?” Alright then!
If we did these things for any other reason than this, perhaps we could look at our recovery closely. It is never acceptable to harm ourselves in a vain attempt to gain approval or position from others. We never will. If our actions are well thought out and meet our needs which are clearly defined and understood, also fine! However, if “self will is running riot?” Get a grip on this behavior. Finances are a crucial part of recovery.
If we had all the money we have wasted on chemicals and “GRANDIOSE BEHAVIORS?” OUR FINANCIAL CONDITIONS WOULD MOST LIKELY BE SOLVED! Think careful before you part with large amounts of your income. Retirement will be much more difficult in the future. Spend carefully and wisely! As long as no person is damaged, including you, have a good time in recovery!
GOOD HEALTH and BE BLESSED! Mr. Denny Goodpenny www.acureforaddiction.com