"We have become very grateful in the course of our recovery.... We have a disease, but we do recover"
Basic Text, p. 8
Active addiction was no picnic; many of us barely came out of it alive. But ranting against the disease, lamenting what it has done to us, pitying ourselves for the condition it has left us in
these things can only keep us locked in the spirit of bitterness and resentment. The path to freedom and spiritual growth begins where bitterness ends, with acceptance.
There is no denying the suffering brought by addiction. Yet it was this disease that brought us to Narcotics Anonymous; without it, we would neither have sought nor found the blessing of recovery. In isolating us, it forced us to seek fellowship. In causing us to suffer, it gave us the experience needed to help others, help no one else was so uniquely suited to offer. In forcing us to our knees, addiction gave us the opportunity to surrender to the care of a loving Higher Power.
We would not wish the disease of addiction on anyone. But the fact remains that we addicts already have this disease
and further, that without this disease we may never have embarked on our spiritual journey. Thousands of people search their whole lives for what we have found in Narcotics Anonymous: fellowship, a sense of purpose, and conscious contact with a Higher Power. Today, we are grateful for everything that has brought us this blessing.
Just for Today: I will accept the fact of my disease, and pursue the blessing of my recovery
Hey Avid! yes I agree,the spiritual principles of the steps are really just enhancements on my faith beliefs and I firmly believe God put NA in my life to ensure I wasnt working my program with just Him and me,, but with others who could help me in my 'self sponsorship" WHICH WAS not a good program!!!Our 12th step literature talks about "spiritual awakenings" having at least a couple things in common"an end to lonliness and a new sense of direction."I have definitely improved in both these areas in my life as I continue to 'WORK THE PROCESS!I am who I am because of who I used to be!!!!!!
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Our purpose is to remain clean,just for today,and to carry the message of recovery.
