THE “WE” CONCEPT

Attending recovery meetings exposes one to a variety of half-truths, some innocuous, others potentially deadly. They all share the common trait of arriving with the best of intentions, but rarely thought through. The “we concept” is one of the deadliest. The “we” in recovery do attend gatherings, participate in sober activities (dances, retreats, conventions, golf, surfing, skiing, chili cook offs ad infinitum) and rely on the help of others to learn how they survive and learn from the inevitable highs and lows of living sober. Where we turns deadly is when the individual places their reliance on meetings, people and sober activities as the basis of their recovery and not on a power greater than themselves. To be crystal clear: Once an individual has crossed the line into addiction, their long-term recovery is based on the work they PERSONALLY do. No person, group or activity will stand as a sentinel to spiritual and physical sobriety and growth, only as guides and examples of what is possible IF the individual is willing to do the work required.

The individual writes their inventory, we don’t. The individual turns their will and life over to the care and direction of a Power Greater than themselves, we may have but the individual must do this for themselves. We may have asked God to remove our defects of character, but if the sufferer fails to their chances of long-term sobriety are slim. We may go with you to do some of your amends, but you have to do them. We may pray together, but only you know if you are praying from the heart or only out of a sense of perceived obligation. We may meditate together, but meditation is a singular activity even when done in a room full of people.

We can’t make you take the necessary action in the long run, when its too cold or hot outside, the “game” is on, too tired, hungry or any of the thousand reasons (excuses) that surface to prevent you from getting up off your ass and be of service, not only to others but most importantly for yourself. We will not be there when you decide to listen to the voice of regression and pain, forgetting that your foe, addiction, is cunning, baffling, and powerful and will tell any lie to pull you from the path of recovery, unless you open up to us. We can’t make you willing, for willingness comes from within.

Those committed to helping others to find their way in recovery will be there to help in anyway they can, if you mean business. The choice is always ours, we cannot make it for anyone, but those on the firing line will go to any lengths with you, together for victory, for we are all connected in Spirit.