I’m sitting in my kitchen contemplating on a subject that I read about in a daily meditation today.

What has recovery given me?

My holistic recovery gives me so much more than the life I knew before! It gives me freedom. Freedom in decision making and choices, in enjoying my day, in using my voice. The things that are important to me in my life are starting to return. I have the respect of my family and friends. I have self-respect. I know how to love myself for all that I am in this life. Making a daily decision to do these things.

What has recovery taken away?

There have been many times in the past that I would be perplexed by this question. What do you mean things are taken away by recovery? I thought, in recovery, you get stuff back? That’s only one piece of it. The other piece is this: recovery has taken away my dishonesty, my dread of the day, some of my selfishness (still working on that one), and my inability to cope with life.

I’m grateful for the freedoms that recovery has blessed me with. I can go anywhere and do anything in the world, as long as I stay recovery focused. There’s a lot in this life to be grateful for!!! All I have to do is take a step back, breathe, and get honest about the truth of things. I have a roof over my head, food in my stomach, water to drink, clothes on my back. That’s a lot more than some people have. It’s not even about having things. It’s about staying present in moments of love and stillness.

When I go into a room, I ask my Higher Power to help me have and open heart and mind. That’s the only way I know that works for me to stay present and grounded. I look forward to conversation today. I look forward to learning about myself and other people. Recovery allows me to be a support in other’s lives today. For that I’m so blessed.

Sending love and light, Kel.