Since the beginning of our recovery, we have found that joy doesnt come from material things but from within ourselves.
Basic Text, p. 103
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Some of us came to Narcotics Anonymous impoverished by our disease. Everything wed owned had been lost to our addiction. Once we got clean, we put all our energy into recovering our material possessions, only to feel even more dissatisfied with our lives than before.
Other members have sought to ease their emotional pain with material things. A potential date has rejected us? Lets buy something. The dog has died? Lets go to the mall. Problem is, emotional fulfillment cant be bought, not even on an easy installment plan.
Theres nothing inherently wrong with material things. They can make life more convenient or more luxurious, but they cant fix us. Where, then, can true joy be found? We know; the answer is within ourselves.
When have we found joy? When weve offered ourselves in service to others, without expectation of reward. Weve found true warmth in the fellowship of othersnot only in NA, but in our families, our relationships, and our communities. And weve found the surest source of satisfaction in our conscious contact with our God. Inner peace, a sure sense of direction, and emotional security do not come from material things, but from within.
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Just for today: True joy cant be bought. I will seek my joy in service, in fellowship, in my Higher PowerI will seek within.
