MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'higher power'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:21:29 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182330&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fserenity-and-the-serenity-prayer%2F Alcoholics Anonymous members have made the Serenity prayer part of recovery. It asserts five basic elements of the recovery program. A belief in something other than ego-self Serenity – one of the goals of recovery Acceptance of …, e.g., loss of control Courage to make changes Wisdom of recovery that is gained from other members, Spirituality, meditation and literature God grant me the Serenity to Accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, and Wisdom to know the difference.   Whether we belong to this church or that, whether we are humanists, agnostics, or atheists, most of us have found these words a wonderful guide in getting sober, staying sober, and enjoying our sobriety. Whether we see the Serenity Prayer as an actual prayer or... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182330 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 05:21:27 +0100 5182330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5107902&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2F12-step-and-mutual-help-programs%2F Twelve-Step and Mutual-Help Programs for Addictive DisordersThis important statement was made after an extensive review of outcomes research on addiction treatment. It reflects the conclusions of recent scientific reviews that alcohol and other drug addictions are chronic, relapsing diseases of the brain.The Minnesota Model, which throughout the 1980s featured 28 days of intensive inpatient and residential treatment, has more recently evolved to a longer continuum of care and greater reliance on outpatient treatment. Brief detoxification establishes abstinence, and patients move to successively less intensive levels of care from inpatient, to partial, to intensive outpatient, to less frequent outpatient visits. The model of chronic illness, which O’Brien and McLellan used in comparin... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5107902 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:37:18 +0100 5107902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5029223&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsurrender-to-win-2%2F Willingness is the key The Higher Power Is Good “Before Alcoholics Anonymous, I could not, or would not, admit I was wrong. My pride would not let me. And yet I was ashamed of me. Caught in this conflict, I banished the Higher Power from my life because I felt He asked me to adhere to a behavior pattern too high for a man of my human frailty. Somehow, I believed that there could be no forgiveness of any failure, that he Higher Power required me to be all good. The moral of the story of the Prodigal Son eluded me. “Since I thought trying was not enough, I stopped trying. That made me feel guilty. For a while, alcohol blotted out the guilt. Then alcohol became the greatest cause of my guilt. I had to be beaten to a pulp physically, mentally and emotionally, become bankrupt in all... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5029223 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 11:25:41 +0100 5029223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953373&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F12-steps-for-a-sponsor%2F Twelve Steps of SponsorshipThese can be applied to all 12-Step anonymous fellowships such as Al-anon, Alateen, Gamblers Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous etcI will not help you to stay and wallow in limbo.I will help you to grow, to become more productive, by your definition.I will help you become more autonomous, more loving of yourself, more excited, less sensitive, more free to become the authority for your own living.I cannot give you dreams or “fix you up” simply because I cannot.I cannot give you growth, or grow for you. You must grow for yourself by facing reality, grim as it may be at times.I cannot take away your loneliness or your pain.I cannot sense your world for you, evaluate your goals for you, tell you what is best for your world; because you have your... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953373 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 15:36:13 +0100 4953373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921761&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcohol-the-isms-and-fear%2F This article will discuss the ism’s and associated fears.The Ism’sThese ism’s are part of normal life, everyone has them to varying degrees. Specifically, the ism’s are an attempt to make life bearable, as a way of “interpersonal control and coping.” This is, of course, what we all strive to do on a day-to-day basis, we need these thinking patterns and behaviours to cope, most people seem to be doing alright, while the alcoholic seems to be sinking fast.One of the main ism’s with alcoholism is the ism of fear.FearsRecovery is mostly about letting go of fear. In fact, fear produces most all my insane moments. Any time I need a reality check, I try to stop and ask myself if there is a fear at the root of what I’m doing.These are the fear demons I’ve identifi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921761 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 20:44:23 +0100 4921761 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902697&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F12-things-i-like-about-recovery%2F AA is the guide to my Higher PowerRecovery gives many benefits such as those related in the 12 promises of recovery. Each and every member of any 12 Step Fellowship has things they value.One day I began to think about what I liked about recovery. I excluded the 12 Steps, Traditions and Promises and came up with a simply worded list.This was my list on that day.12 Things I like about recoveryNo more domestic violenceNo fear of the policeEconomic stabilityBetter libido and sexual enjoymentA Higher Power that helps me in all of lifeBetter relationships with familyWake up without a hangover – every dayA Fellowship that is my second familyClear, rational thinkingNo deep, crippling depressionNo chronic, hurtful anger or resentmentsI can laugh at myself.That was couple of months ago and as ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902697 Sat, 04 Jun 2011 19:24:40 +0100 4902697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4762940&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fstay-on-the-beam%2F Just for Today – Stay on the Beam“Today most commercial flying is done on a radio beam. A directional beam is produced to guide the pilot to his destination, and as long as he keeps on this beam he knows that he is safe, even if he cannot see around him for fog, or get his bearings in any other way.As soon as he gets off the beam in any direction he is in danger, and he immediately tries to get back on to the beam once more.Those who believe in the All-ness of a Higher Power, have a spiritual beam upon which to navigate on the voyage of life. As long as you have peace of mind and some sense of the Presence of God you are on the beam, and you are safe, even if outer things seem to be confused or even very dark; but as soon as you get off the beam you are in danger.You are off th... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4762940 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 16:45:07 +0100 4762940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4724270&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faffirmations-for-recovery%2F On Becoming Your Own Loving ParentAffirmations to be Repeated Each DayThese affirmations apply to recovering addicts, alcoholics, co-dependents, adult children of alcoholics / addicts and anyone working for recovery from a dysfunctional upbringing.Affirmations with other recovery program work are a powerful tool for addressing our critical nature toward ourselves and others. These affirmations represent the basic truths that most of us did not receive as children, but we can claim as adults. Read these affirmations out loud for several weeks.  You may also write down some of them and post them where you can read them. With affirmations, we begin to change our inner Critical Parent.  We learn to give ourselves a break.It is okay to know who I am.It is okay to trust ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4724270 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 16:32:00 +0100 4724270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4552150&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fagnostics-and-alcoholics-anonymous%2F Image via WikipediaFor agnostics who would like to work the steps, this version of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous provides slightly different wording of the six steps that make reference to God or a Higher Power. This version of the Twelve Steps seems to have originated in agnostic A.A. groups in California.1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol-that our lives had become unmanageable.2. Came to believe and to accept that we needed strengths beyond our awareness and resources to restore us to sanity.[Original: Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.]3. Made a decision to entrust our will and our lives to the care of the collective wisdom and resources of those who have searched before us.[Original: Made a decision to turn our wills an... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4552150 Sat, 05 Mar 2011 17:59:00 +0100 4552150 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4411729&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Ffaith-in-something%2F Something Greater than MeA Glacier Melts“A.A. provided for me a means by which I could overcome the compulsion to drink and, more important, a means by which I could achieve a personality change or spiritual awakening-a surrender to life. Though I have had problems and deep troubles since that summer ten years ago, my faith has not been shaken. I cannot say that I have found God as I understand Him, but rather that I have faith in Something which remains a mystery to me and which I continue to seek. – Fresno, California, USA”AAWS, Inc.; Came to Believe, 2004, pg. 59Originally posted 2009-12-23 12:37:08. Share, print or e-mail this articleAction and Patience (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4411729 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 15:40:01 +0100 4411729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349703&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fhumility-and-surrender%2F Conclusions. The present results suggest that, relative to their more humble counterparts, recovering alcoholics who lack humility (ie., high narcissists) do not have more difficulty surrendering to the idea they are powerless over their drinking problem.However, recovering alcoholics who lack authority-related humility do show a marked lack of faith in the proposition that God offers a viable solution to their alcohol problem.Consequently, they are quite reluctant to surrender their willfulness, and thereby accept help from a Higher Power.Given that faith in the existence, availability or efficacy of a Higher Power is difficult for this subsample of individuals, it seems likely that – in the context of 12-step recovery – deficits in humility may serve to increase a clients vul... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349703 Fri, 14 Jan 2011 15:44:00 +0100 4349703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4305109&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fbeing-of-freedom%2F Image via WikipediaBeing of Freedom We do not regret the past, nor wish to shut the door on it.  We comprehend the word serenity and we know peace.  We live a life of balance by taming the many voices within so that they may serve their individual purpose without taking over and destroying the perfect harmony of our being. We give up the mastermind of our own self-will to follow the light of our spirit and live a humbled existence.  We know the gift of life comes from deep within by experiencing the gratitude of this very moment.  We accept that Thy will leads us to true freedom.Being of Freedom « The Hazelden Blog.Related articlesHeart of Serenity (recoveryissexy.com)Two Wolves (recoveryissexy.com)Disturbing Denial (recoveryissexy.com) Share, print or e-mail this articleStepping Ston... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4305109 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 10:07:13 +0100 4305109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4305111&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwomen-the-12-steps-of-aa%2F 12 Steps lead women upwardsWomen and the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous: A Gendered NarrativeThis paper examines how women “work” the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) from a gendered perspective.Feminist critics of AA havechallenged the language of AA’s Twelve Steps,the spiritual nature of the steps, andthe male-dominated culture of the Twelve-Step program.This paper offers insight into how women in AA approach, interpret, and utilize the Twelve Steps to recover from alcoholism.Through survey and narrative data, findings suggeststhat women working AA’s Twelve Steps become empowered andchange for the better in spite of the male-dominated culture and language of the Twelve Steps andregardless of the difficulty they may have encountered in completing these steps.In part... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4305111 Fri, 31 Dec 2010 15:21:02 +0100 4305111 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266281&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F10-pointers-to-recovery%2F Seek and yee shall findThese Ten Pointers are a summary of the lifesaving directions to recovery from alcoholism given in ‘How It Works’, chapter 5 of Alcoholics Anonymous – the AA Big Book.Completely give yourself to this simple Program.Practice rigorous honesty.Be willing to go to any lengths to recover.Be fearless and thorough in your practice of the principles.Realize that there is no easier, softer way.Let go of your old ideas, absolutely.Recognize that half measures will not work.Ask a Higher Power’s protection and care with complete abandon.Be willing to grow along spiritual lines.Accept the following ideas:that you cannot manage your own life;that probably no human power can restore you to sanity;that A Higher Power can and will if sought.See also12 Spiritual QuestionsThe L... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266281 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:29:38 +0100 4266281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4253456&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FZoViqCqG69Q%2F The Big Book of “Alcoholics Anonymous” includes the story of a woman whose drinking landed her in jail twice and nearly ruined her third marriage. Her final drunk, she recalls, lasted 60 days around the clock. “It was my intention, literally, to drink myself to death,” she said. Joining AA saved her life, largely because it helped her overcome the habit of resentment.This woman wrote that “self-pity and resentment were my constant companions … for I seemed to have a resentment against everybody I had ever known.” Moreover, “the only people who would support this attitude or whom I felt understood me at all were the people I met in bars and the ones who drank as I did.”AA recognizes that resentment is toxic to our inner lives. The case i... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4253456 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 03:37:37 +0100 4253456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4253457&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FfdFyZa5Rz4M%2F • “If I could have stayed cool, I’d still be drinking. Very quickly, though, I started getting into trouble. Going to sixth grade got in the way of my life, which consisted of getting drunk as much as possible.” [After rehab] “I was going to A.A. meetings. Everyone was older, even most of the kids at the young people meetings. But I found that alcoholics understand other alcoholics. . . . Regardless of how young or old or ‘special’ I am, in A.A. I’m just a drunk.” Tina, who joined A.A. at 13• “I loved drinking and was as addicted to the lies, the shady people and places as I was to the alcohol. My grades suffered until I stopped going to school altogether. . . . I found myself in places without any idea of how I had gotten there. I overdosed on alcohol.” Since comin... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4253457 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 03:37:34 +0100 4253457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4214496&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fheart-of-serenity%2F Serenity Serenity Prayer gets to the heart of recovery In the concentration camp, Viktor Frankl was prisoner No. 119,104. He spent most of his time in forced labour, laying tracks for Nazi railway lines. At one point, his job was to dig a tunnel for an underground water main. He worked alone. His reward was a coupon worth 12 cigarettes. Instead, he exchanged the token for 12 bowls of soup so he could avoid starving. Many people assume that the only response to this situation would be misery or insanity. Yet, even in the concentration camp, Frankl felt free. In Man’s Search for Meaning: An Introduction to Logotherapy (Beacon Press, ed. 4), Frankl concluded that everything can be taken from us except one thing: the last of human freedoms — to choose one’s own attitude in any given ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4214496 Fri, 26 Nov 2010 15:19:03 +0100 4214496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4197371&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-is-alcoholics-anonymous%2F AA's logoAmerican history includes many social movements that aimed to help people stop drinking. There was Prohibition, of course. But there was also the Anti-Saloon League, the American Temperance Society, the Washingtonian Temperance Society, the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, and more. Only one such movement survived — Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).AA not only survived, it spread across the world. Today, AA lists its membership at over 2 million, with over 100,00 groups in Australia, Africa, Asia, and Europe as well as North and South America, even Russia. If ever there was evidence that sobriety can be mass-produced, it is in AA.AA began with the chance meeting of two people on May 12, 1935: Bill W., an alcoholic stockbroker from New York, and Dr Bob S., an alcoholic surg... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4197371 Sat, 20 Nov 2010 16:31:49 +0100 4197371 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4172331&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Frecovery-and-healthcare-spirituality%2F Spirituality is universal; in recovery from alcoholism, addiction,  co-dependency; or in the practice of health-care, the principles are the same. This is an extract from an article by the Royal College of Psychiatrists In healthcare, spirituality is identified with experiencing a deep-seated sense of meaning and purpose in life, together with a sense of belonging. It is about acceptance, integration and wholeness. According to one definition, “The spiritual dimension tries to be in harmony with the universe, strives for answers about the infinite, and comes especially into focus in times of emotional stress, physical and mental illness, loss, bereavement and death.” This desire for wholeness of being is not an intellectual attainment, for it is no less present in people with learning... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4172331 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 15:01:00 +0100 4172331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4172332&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcame-to-believe%2F The spiritual adventure of Alcoholics Anonymous as experienced by individual members. Over 75 A.A. members from all over the world describe the wide diversity of convictions implied in “God as we understood Him.” Especially helpful to those who confuse “spiritual” with “religious.” - Order now >> Came to Believe - Share, print or e-mail this articleAction and PatienceThe Alcoholics Anonymous Spiritual AwakeningMany Faiths Aid RecoveryBill W was Spiritual not ReligiousReligious 12-Step Fellowship Links (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4172332 Sun, 14 Nov 2010 15:30:24 +0100 4172332 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4159516&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FPzXkHcBVhDs%2F Image via Wikipedia We Agnostics Yet we had been seeing another kind of flight, a spiritual liberation from this world, people who rose above their problems. They said [the Higher Power] made these things possible, and we only smiled. We had seen spiritual release, but liked to tell ourselves it wasn’t true. Actually we were fooling ourselves, for deep down in every man, woman, and child, is the fundamental idea of [a Higher Power]. It may be obscured by calamity, by pomp, by worship of other things, but in some form or other it is there. For faith in a Power greater than ourselves, and miraculous demonstrations of that power in human lives, are facts as old as man himself. We finally saw that faith in some kind of [Higher Power] was a part of our make-up, just as much as the feelin... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4159516 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 16:38:00 +0100 4159516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4152284&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Ftwelve-step-christianity%2F Genuine Christianity is more than a set of beliefs–it is a relationship with Jesus Christ that involves hearing His voice and following His directions. But how does one do this? What tools or spiritual disciplines enable Christians to live out their lives in dynamic submission to God’s will? Perhaps no set of principles is better suited to help Christians hear God’s voice and submit to His will than the Twelve Steps. As a Christian who practices the Steps, Saul Selby knows them to be an invaluable tool for living out the Christian faith. Selby brings his knowledge to bear in Twelve Step Christianity, which teaches Christians in recovery to connect their faith with their program–and shows any Christian a clear path to a more intimate relationship with Christ. Laid o... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4152284 Sun, 07 Nov 2010 13:37:07 +0100 4152284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4143022&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fmaturity-of-mind-through-a-spiritual-awakening%2F Image via Wikipedia Recover Maturity of Mind and Adult Behavior Through a Spiritual Awakening The 12-Step program of recovery from alcoholism / addiction / codependency, in part, takes one through the process to maturity. Maturity is gradually attained through the process of the spiritual awakening which is a result of working the 12-Steps. The 12th Step states “Having had a Spiritual Awakening as the result of these steps …” The Oxford Dictionary defines the word "maturity" as deliberateness of action, mature consideration, due deliberation, fullness or perfection of natural development, ripeness, due promptness, the state of being complete, perfect, ready, and so on. This is the literary definition. What is maturity? Maturity need not necessarily come w... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4143022 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:49:13 +0100 4143022 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4143023&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faa-still-works-2%2F An Historical Piece – AA Still Works After Twenty-Nine Years Marty M’s story "Women Suffer Too" was the first woman’s story in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. Today, as it was in April 1939 when I attended my first meeting, the Twelve Steps are to me the heart of the AA program. Desire to stop drinking By the time I gathered up courage to attend a meeting, I had read the Big Book three times. And I had studied several hundred times the pages containing the Twelve Steps and the suggestions on how to use them. They didn’t seem easy to me — they didn’t even seem simple, in spite of the clarity of language. But I was eager to go to work on all of them, for they seemed to me the key to that which I so desperately needed: assurance that I wo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4143023 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:37:14 +0100 4143023 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4134270&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FQPvJfguvlWo%2F Step Ten; Building the spiritual basis for recovery each day The Twelve Step program of recovery from alcoholism and other addictions rests on a notion of spirituality that is not about having the "right" beliefs. Instead, it is about adopting daily practices that help people stay clean and sober. These daily practices are the subject of Step Ten of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous: "Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it." Here the word "inventory" means taking stock of our emotional disturbances, especially those that can return us to drinking or other drug use. Step Ten suggests that we watch for these disturbances every day and make an immediate response. Taking a daily inventory is important to all peop... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4134270 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 16:38:00 +0100 4134270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106073&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fr3zaoopVbVg%2F Members of 12 Step Fellowships in recovery often catch themselves asking ‘why?.’ We are usually encouraged to talk to our sponsor, go to meetings; let go, let God. Good and most often successful solutions. But we are also usually encouraged to get active. These eight questions are complimentary to the 12 Step program. —— I am writing this with a broken neck… One minute I was playing footy, the next I was stretched out on a hospital bed with my neck in a brace which I will be wearing for the next 6-12 weeks. When faced with a crisis, our natural response is to ask "Why?" Why did this happen now? Why did this happen to me? But "Why?" may not be the most helpful question to ask. Sure, sometimes we need to understand the cause of the problem – p... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106073 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:09:27 +0100 4106073 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4086523&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FDFzSya4LSlE%2F When You Don’t Believe in God Here is an opportunity to listen in on fascinating conversations with people who found God when they didn’t really want to and weren’t even looking. Through a series of deeply personal interviews with individuals from different walks of life, the authors conduct a captivating discourse on discovering a "higher power." The interview subjects are not proselytizers, nor are they interested in comparing spiritual states. Their stories are neither tidy nor definitive. What they offer, however, is a remarkable, refreshing, and ultimately satisfying mosaic on the meaning and manifestation of God.   Get today >> Finding God When You Don’t Believe in God Share, print or e-mail this articleRandom ArticlesShould ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4086523 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 15:26:00 +0100 4086523 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4086525&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fz1oRVEIjTvQ%2F Image via Wikipedia Moving from anger to forgiveness is a healing experience Adults who grew up with alcoholic parents probably have plenty to be mad about. As children, they were virtually powerless to stop the forms of abuse and neglect they often suffered. They couldn’t express their anger or outrage in a healthy manner. Instead, many either acted out their anger by getting into trouble or reacted inwardly by converting anger into shame, depression or low self-esteem. It can take years of hard work to discover how deep the wounds really go. If anger isn’t eventually dealt with responsibly, it can be a major block to personal growth. Unresolved anger is often a factor in addictive and compulsive behaviors and relapse. Holding on to old anger can cause people to avoid conf... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4086525 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 13:25:21 +0100 4086525 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4077608&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fspirituality-is-an-awakening%2F What is Spirituality? “Spirituality is an awakening—or is it all the loose ends woven together into a mellow fabric? It’s understanding—or is it all the knowledge one need ever know? It’s freedom—if you consider fear slavery. It’s confidence—or is it the belief that a higher power will see you through any storm or gale? It’s adhering to the dictates of your conscience—or is it a deep, genuine, living concern for the people and the planet? It’s peace of mind in the face of adversity. It’s a keen and sharpened desire for survival. From; AA book – Came to Believe, 2004, pg. 5 See also Spiritual Health Blockages SPIRITUAL AWAKENING Spirituality Books Inspirational Books 12 Spiritual Questions Share, print or e-mail this articleWhat About This Spiritual Awa... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4077608 Sat, 16 Oct 2010 14:46:04 +0100 4077608 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3969188&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fgod-as-we-understood-him%2F Bill W. Co-founder of AA Historical Roots of the Concept ‘Higher Power’. The basic principles of Alcoholics Anonymous were worked out in the late 1930s and early 1940s, during what co-founder Bill W. often referred to as the Fellowship’s period of “trial and error.” The founding members had been using six steps borrowed from the Oxford Groups, where many of them started out. Bill felt that more specific instructions would be better, and in the course of writing A.A.’s basic text, Alcoholics Anonymous, he expanded them to twelve. But he was dealing with a group of newly sober drunks, and not surprisingly his new version met with spirited opposition. Even though the founding members were in many ways a homogeneous bunch (white, middle-class, almost exclusively male, and primarily... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3969188 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 15:12:01 +0100 3969188 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3962011&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fmastering-our-spiritual-selves%2F This article was written by Kevin Michael Kiley. A 1992 graduate of Dartmouth and a successful entrepreneur, he engaged in a profound spiritual search in the face of severe illness. He is now dedicated to serving others as a highly skilled life coach. Learn how Kevin can also help you to move through obstacles and create constantly increasing success. http://www.kevinmichaelkiley.com See also; ABC’s of Recovery What About This Spiritual Awakening Thing? Sought Through Prayer and Meditation – A Recovery Book Faith It Till You Make It – A Recovery Book - Share, print or e-mail this articleRandom Articles10 Pointers to RecoveryCross AddictionAct As If BeliefThe Purpose of AlateenEnabling of Alcoholism (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3962011 Sun, 12 Sep 2010 15:00:00 +0100 3962011 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3960075&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwellbriety-recovery-for-native-americans%2F Wellbriety – Continuing a Legacy of Resistance … Implementing a Vision for Healing Wellbriety means to be both sober and well. It’s a word translating a term from the language of the Passamaquoddy Nation of Maine as given by an elder in the mid 1990s. It describes a natural evolution of the recovery process. The Wellbriety Movement among Native Americans is a direct descendent of the modern Native sobriety movement that began in the 1950s and continues to change and grow even today. “I went to a sobriety meeting in Albuquerque, New Mexico in the early 1980s and there was a guy named Harold Belmont there who had a smudge. I was going, ‘What is this? What is this?’ It was controversial because it was very early sobriety for Indian people and there were sober people prese... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3960075 Sat, 11 Sep 2010 13:50:35 +0100 3960075 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3921087&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fhelp-me%2F Here is a new daily prayer, I hope it works for you. Lord, help me to relax about insignificant details          beginning tomorrow at 7:41:23 AM PST.  Lord, help me to consider people’s feelings,          (even if most of them ARE hypersensitive.)  Lord, help me to take responsibility for my own actions,                 even though they’re usually NOT my fault.  Lord, help me to not try to RUN everything.                 But, if You need some help, please feel           &... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3921087 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:31:00 +0100 3921087 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3915296&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fpractice-to-deceive%2F Oh, what a tangled web we weave When first we practice to deceive.   –Sir Walter Scott To deceive means to fool people into believing things that are not true. As addicts or alcoholics, we did this in many ways. We lied. We hid facts. We were sneaky. While we were trying to fool other people, we also fooled ourselves. Every lie was like a knot. Pretty soon we were a tangled mess. Our lives became unmanageable, tangled webs of life. Our recovery program – an honesty program – tells us how we can untangle our lives. In the First Step, we admit we are all tangled up in our life of addiction. Second, we realize we can fix it. Third, we decide to take on the job of fixing it, no matter how much work it takes. In Steps Four and Five, we find the knots with the help of another pe... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3915296 Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:13:00 +0100 3915296 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3907789&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fchanging-roles-in-the-family-disease-of-alcoholism%2F Changing The Part We Play In The Family Disease of Alcoholism Quotes from the Book "How Al-Anon Works for Families and Friends of Alcoholics" p32-33 Recovery ‘…the most helpful and most loving action any family member can take is to get help for ourselves. By recovering from the effects of this disease we become able to stop playing our part in the family disease. The balance is disrupted. Suddenly it is no longer so comfortable for the alcoholic. We cannot make choices for other people, even those mast important to us. We are not gods, and we can’t truly know what is best for anyone else, no matter how obvious a particular course of action may seem to us at the time. Most of us had to hit a "bottom" in personal agony, before we were ready to make... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3907789 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:37:00 +0100 3907789 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3876897&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fagnostic-recovery-and-alcoholics-anonymous%2F For agnostics in recovery who would like to work the steps. This version of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous provides slightly different wording of the six steps that make reference to God or a Higher Power. This version of the Twelve Steps seems to have originated in agnostic A.A. groups in California. 1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol-that our lives had become unmanageable. 2. Came to believe and to accept that we needed strengths beyond our awareness and resources to restore us to sanity. [Original: Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.] 3. Made a decision to entrust our will and our lives to the care of the collective wisdom and resources of those who have searched before us. [Original: Made a decision to turn our wills... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3876897 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:16:00 +0100 3876897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3858387&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdetachment-with-love%2F Alcoholism is a family disease. Living with the effects of someone else’s drinking is too devastating for most people to bear without help. In Al-Anon we learn individuals are not responsible for another person’s disease or recovery from it. We let go of our obsession with another’s behavior and begin to lead happier and more manageable lives, lives with dignity and rights; lives guided by a Power greater than ourselves. In Al-Anon we learn: Not to suffer because of the actions or reactions of other people; Not to allow ourselves to be used or abused by others in the interest of another’s recovery; Not to do for others what they could do for themselves; Not to manipulate situations so others will eat, go to bed, get up, pay bills, not drink; Not to cover up for an... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3858387 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 06:35:47 +0100 3858387 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3858388&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fpractical-attitudes-for-recovery%2F In the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous members talk of practical attitudes that help in recovery from alcoholism. Some of these are; "…thoroughly followed our path." p.58 line 2. Referring to the ‘Suggested Program of Recovery’. "…completely give themselves to this program…" p.58 line 3. "…developing…rigorous honesty." p.58 line 9 – instead of denial and lying. "…willing to go to any length…" p.58 line 18. A very pragmatic strategy. "…fearless and thorough…" p.58 line 23. With courage. "…let go absolutely." p.58 line 25. With faith in the fact that millions of people have already done just that. "…asked His protection and care with complete a... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3858388 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 06:15:09 +0100 3858388 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3858391&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faction-and-patience-2%2F The writings on recovery from alcoholism, addiction and co-dependency are extensive and the book ‘Came to Believe’ is one which I could not do without. “In shame and despair, I went to my first A.A. meeting.  By some minor miracle, I was able to suspend opinion, analysis, judgment, and criticism, and instead to listen and hear. I heard someone say that A.A. works for those who work for it, those who put ACTION into the program.  For me, at the time, action consisted of simply showing up at an A.A. meeting and following the suggestions I heard….The first step in the process of ‘coming to believe’ had been taken.” AA Came to Believe, page 42 Share, print or e-mail this article24 Ways to get the Rest You NeedAA Works & Costs LessAction and Pati... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3858391 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:38:01 +0100 3858391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3854755&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fa-certain-kind-of-faith-2%2F Recovery from alcoholism, addiction, codependency and gambling requires a certain kind of faith. "Without knowing it, had we not been brought to where we stood by a certain kind of faith? For did we not believe in our own reasoning? Did we not have confidence in our ability to think? What was that but a sort of faith? Yes, we had been faithful, abjectly faithful to the God of Reason. So, in one way or another, we discovered that faith had been involved all the time!" Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th Edition, We Agnostics, pg. 53~ See also; Alcoholics Anonymous – the Big Book – an Audible MP3 book Faith It Till You Make It – A Recovery Book - Share, print or e-mail this articleRandom ArticlesA Woman’s Way Through the Twelve StepsFemale Drinkers have more P... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3854755 Sun, 08 Aug 2010 18:56:00 +0100 3854755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3854756&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fim-a-jewish-alcoholic-in-aa-2%2F My name is George and I’m a Jewish alcoholic in Alcoholics Anonymous Many spiritualities are found in AA. A startling, four-color advertising poster appeared some time ago in the New York subways. Staring at the viewer was a "typical Irish cop" about to eat a luscious delicatessen sandwich on Levy’s rye bread, and the legend was "You don’t have to be Jewish to like Levy’s." As countless subway stations flew by, and as the rusty gears in my head meshed, the whole idea of that Irish cop (and by now in my mind’s eye he had become a Catholic-Irish cop named O’Toole, with a thick brogue, 14 children, and a grandmother in Kilkenny) had turned itself upside down. One evening, while talking to my closest friend in A.A. (whose name is so I... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3854756 Sun, 08 Aug 2010 18:06:00 +0100 3854756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3833567&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Frecovery-prayer-books%2F Prayer is an effective part of recovery for most people. These prayer books may help guide or inspire. – The Worrywart’s Prayer Book A best-selling author validates our anxieties (over everything from jobs to wrinkles and the return of polyester), and shows us how to enlist God’s help in pinpointing and dispelling them. 12 Step Prayer Book A second edition (with 44 new prayers) of the best-selling book of prayers and inspirations for those seeking just the right words for conversing with their Higher Power or for expressing their innermost thoughts and feelings. The 12 Step Prayer Book With words of wisdom and inspiration gleaned from Twelve Step meetings and adapted from common prayers and devotional readings, members of all T... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3833567 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 17:29:00 +0100 3833567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3808846&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-23rd-psalm-for-recovery%2F Suitable for members of Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-anon, Alateen, ACOA, Naranon, Narcotics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous and anybody in recovery through a 12-Step fellowship. The Lord is my sponsor, I shall not want. He makes me to go to many meetings. He leads me to sit back, relax, and listen with an open mind, He restores my soul, my sanity, and my health. He leads me in the path of sobriety, serenity, and fellowship for my own sake. He teaches me to think, to take it easy, to live and let live, and do first things first. He makes me more humble and grateful. He teaches me to accept the things I cannot change, to change the things I can and gives me the wisdom to know the difference. Yea, though I walk through the valley of despair, frustration, guilt, and remorse, I will fear no evil. Fo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3808846 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 18:00:01 +0100 3808846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3798829&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdeveloping-spirituality%2F Spirituality means that we know we are more than just the physical self. We have an energy or spirit attached to us. In some religious circles our spirit is referred to as the soul and is immortal and that the spirit was created by some divine maker or creator. On the other hand, spirituality to some is a sense of connectiveness to the spiritual nature of the universe, the collective universe that is a part of us all. What the psychologist Carl Jung referred to as the collective unconscious. The collective unconscious is the reservoir of the experiences of all humans. Some believe that spirituality is simply getting in touch with your higher consciousness because we all have the divine spirit within us and it can be accessible. Regardless of your definition, when you begin a spiritual jou... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3798829 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 18:04:00 +0100 3798829 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3795063&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fyou-say-and-the-higher-power-says%2F It is easy to get discouraged when things are going bad. Whether its alcoholism, addiction, depression, gambling, co-dependency or relationships we shouldn’t lose heart. The Higher Power is at work in our lives, helping us in recovery even in the midst of pain and suffering. Remember, next time your little hut is burning to the ground it just may be a smoke signal that summons the goodwill of The Higher Power. For all the negative things we have to say to ourselves, The Higher Power has a positive answer for it. Here is one example from Christianity; “It’s impossible” Bible says: All things are possible (Luke 18:27) “I’m too tired” Bible says: I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28-30) “Nobody really loves me” Bible says: I love you (John... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3795063 Mon, 26 Jul 2010 18:34:01 +0100 3795063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3724577&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FE-BWcl43UBs%2F Does Prayer Decrease Alcohol Consumption? Four research studies involving 1,758 people show that prayer frequency cuts alcohol consumption. In Study 1 of 824 people, we used a cross-sectional design and found that higher prayer frequency was related to lower alcohol consumption and problematic drinking behavior. Study 2 of 702 people used a longitudinal design and found that more frequent prayer predicted less alcohol consumption and problematic drinking behavior at a later date, and this relationship held when controlling for baseline levels of drinking and prayer. In Study 3 of 117 people, we used an experimental design to test for a causal relationship between prayer frequency and alcohol consumption. Participants assigned to pray every day (either an undirected prayer or a prayer fo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3724577 Sat, 03 Jul 2010 19:37:00 +0100 3724577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3723305&cid=t_135458_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Falcoholics-anonymous%2F2010.07.03 To further emphasize my admiration for superb sci/med/health writing, I wish to add another writer to my growing blog category of “Journalists, Awesome.” Via my drug abuse research colleague, DrugMonkey, my attention was drawn to a new Wired magazine article by Brendan I. Koerner entitled, Secret of AA: After 75 Years, We Don’t Know How It Works. I strongly recommend this long-form article for anyone in the field of substance abuse and dependence research, psychology and general clinical research, students of excellent science writing, alcoholics and their family members, and anyone who thinks that good science writing no longer exists. I don’t want to influence your views any further, other than to say that since I poured my first whiskey and water for my grandmoth... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3723305 Sat, 03 Jul 2010 18:00:01 +0100 3723305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726786&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwill-will-power-higher-power%2F Will power, will and higher power are terms discussed in 12-Step programs of recovery. I for one did not understand the differences between the various attitudes and actions I adopted. Then I came across something similar to the following and I was able to tell the difference between them – at least in theory. I took such a list to my sponsor and have been discussing these ever since. Counter will Opposition to ‘other’ will (other being spiritual guidance, another person, parent, boss or what one ‘must’ do) Child will (As when a child defies its parental guidance) Rebellion Positive will Willing what one ‘must’ do Disciplined will Parental will Creative will Willing what one ‘wants’ rather than what one needs Passionate will Higher will Spiritual will Higher Po... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726786 Sat, 03 Jul 2010 17:24:01 +0100 3726786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3740833&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FCphzlupmll0%2F Does Prayer Decrease Alcohol Consumption? Four methodologically diverse studies (N = 1,758) show that prayer frequency and alcohol consumption are negatively related. In Study 1 (n = 824), we used a cross-sectional design and found that higher prayer frequency was related to lower alcohol consumption and problematic drinking behavior. Study 2 (n = 702) used a longitudinal design and found that more frequent prayer at Time 1 predicted less alcohol consumption and problematic drinking behavior at Time 2, and this relationship held when controlling for baseline levels of drinking and prayer. In Study 3 (n = 117), we used an experimental design to test for a causal relationship between prayer frequency and alcohol consumption. Participants assigned to pray every day (either an undirected pr... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3740833 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 19:22:56 +0100 3740833 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3718701&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-aa-spiritual-experience%2F The terms "spiritual experience" and "spiritual awakening" are used many times in our book which, upon careful reading, show that the personality change sufficient to bring about recovery from alcoholism has manifested itself among us in many different forms. Yet it is true that our first printing gave many readers the impression that these personality changes, or religious experiences, must be in the nature of sudden and spectacular upheavals.    Happily for everyone, this conclusion is erroneous. In the first few chapters a number of sudden revolutionary changes are described.    Though it was not our intention to create such an impression, many alcoholics have nevertheless concluded that in order to recover they must acquire an immedia... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3718701 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 18:55:00 +0100 3718701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3718703&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fim-an-agnostic-alcoholic-in-aa-2%2F My name is Jan and I’m an agnostic alcoholic in AA My parents gave me a faith that in later years I lost. No, it was not a religious faith, though I was exposed to the teachings of two sects. Neither was forced upon me; I simply drifted away through boredom, and my fragile, superficial belief in God vanished as soon as I tried thinking about it. It was a faith in people that my parents gave me — both by loving me and by respecting me as an individual, entitled to make my own choices. Out in the world on my own, I still had a feeling of being under benevolent protection. My immediate bosses (of both sexes) seemed to regard me as kindly as school teachers had. Oddly, my good fortune sometimes annoyed me. "What is this?" I asked myself. "Do I arouse the parental impuls... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3718703 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 18:49:00 +0100 3718703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3740835&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FlA30b9IHODk%2F Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) The recovery from alcoholism: Twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. AA is a self-help, volunteer organization begun in the mid-1930s that views alcoholism as a disease, not a defect of will. Its founders, themselves alcoholics, maintained that persons with the disease should completely stop drinking, but they did not concern those who could handle alcohol. This position contrasted with the premises of most temperance advocates, who saw drinking as a moral choice and opposed any alcohol use by anyone. The Twelve Steps embody the wisdom of the founders of AA about pursuing ongoing recovery from alcoholism. The procedure they describe has evolved into one of the most successful programs for helping alcoholics. Many drug treatment programs also have based themselves o... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3740835 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 08:58:06 +0100 3740835 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3691118&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-about-this-spiritual-awakening-thing%2F New dawn awakens new insight as alcoholic mist clears The phrase “spiritual awakening,” found in the Twelfth Step and throughout A.A. literature, remains daunting to many beginners. For some, it conjures up a dramatic “conversion” experience – not an appealing idea to an alcoholic just coming off a drunk. To others, beaten down by years of steady drinking, it seems completely out of reach. But for those who persevere, ongoing sobriety almost invariably brings the realization that – in some wonderful and unexpected way – they have indeed experienced a spiritual change. Spirituality, A.A. style, is the result of action. Step Twelve begins, “Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these Steps. . .”, and in the book Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (pa... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3691118 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 16:03:01 +0100 3691118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3687364&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fover-eating-problems%2F OA Program of Recovery Overeaters Anonymous offers a program of recovery from compulsive overeating using the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of OA. Worldwide meetings and other tools provide a fellowship of experience, strength and hope where members respect one another’s anonymity. OA charges no dues or fees; it is self-supporting through member contributions. Unlike other organizations, OA is not just about weight loss, obesity or diets; it addresses physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. It is not a religious organization and does not promote any particular diet. To address weight loss, OA encourages members to develop a food plan with a health care professional and a sponsor. If you want to stop your compulsive eating, welcome to Overeaters Anonymous. The Twelve Steps of O... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3687364 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 16:03:00 +0100 3687364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3683880&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Ffamily-groups-for-addiction%2F The NarAnon Family Groups are a worldwide fellowship for those affected by someone else’s addiction. As a Twelve Step Program, we offer our help by sharing our experience, strength, and hope. NarAnon’s Purpose Nar-Anon is a twelve-step program designed to help relatives and friends of addicts recover from the effects of living with an addicted relative or friend. Nar-Naranon’s program of recovery uses Nar-Naranon’s Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. The only requirement to be a member and attend Nar-Anon meetings is that there is a problem of drugs or addiction in a relative or friend. Nar-Anon is not affiliated with any other organization or outside entity. NarAnon’s Twelve Steps We admitted we were powerless over the Addict — that our lives have become unmanage... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3683880 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 15:35:00 +0100 3683880 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3678659&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Frecovery-in-marijuana-anonymous-2%2F The practice of rigorous honesty, of opening our hearts and minds, and the willingness to go to any lengths to have a spiritual awakening are essential to our recovery. Our old ideas and ways of life no longer work for us. Our suffering shows us that we need to let go absolutely. We surrender ourselves to a Power greater than ourselves. Here are the steps we take which are suggested for recovery: The Twelve Steps of Marijuana Anonymous We admitted we were powerless over marijuana, that our lives had become unmanageable. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God, as we understood God. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3678659 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 05:35:00 +0100 3678659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3678661&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F11th-step-prayer%2F Lord, make me a channel for thy peace – that where there is hatred, I may bring love – that where there is wrong, I may bring the spirit of forgiveness – that where there is discord, I may bring harmony – that where there is error, I may bring truth – that where there is doubt, I may bring faith – that where there is despair, I may bring hope – that where there are shadows, I may bring light – that where there is sadness, I may bring joy. Lord, grant that I may seek rather – to comfort than to be comforted – to understand, than to be understood – to love, than to be loved For it is by self-forgetting that one finds. It is by forgiving that one is forgiven. It is by dying that one awakens to Eternal Life. Amen. No matter where I am in my spiritual growth, th... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3678661 Sat, 19 Jun 2010 16:32:00 +0100 3678661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3676900&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Ftie-up-your-camel-2%2F Trust Your Higher Power, But Tie Up Your Camel There was once a man who was on his way back home from market with his camel and, as he’d had a good day, he decided to stop along the road and offer his thanks to his Higher Power. He left his camel outside and went in and spent several hours offering thanks, praying and promising that he’d be a good person in the future, help the poor and be an upstanding pillar of his community. When he emerged it was already dark and lo and behold – his camel was gone! He immediately flew into a violent temper and shook his fist at the sky, yelling: "You traitor, God! How could you do this to me? I put all my trust in you and then you go and stab me in the back like this!" A passing sufi dervish heard the man yelling and c... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3676900 Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:21:00 +0100 3676900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3666232&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fweekly-recovery-activity-checklist%2F In the space below, place a check mark before each activity that reflects your activities during the past seven days. ___ I set personal positive goals for myself this week. ___ I attended at least two recovery support group this past week. ___ I had individual contact with my sponsor this week. ___ I applied recovery concepts to my daily life this week. ___ I spent leisure time with others in recovery this week. ___ I enjoyed time with friends this week who support my recovery. ___ I successfully avoided people, places and things I associate with my addiction. ___ I tried to do something positive to improve my relationship with my spouse/partner this week. ___ I tried to improve my conscious contact with my Higher Power ___ I had positive contact with my children this past week.... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3666232 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 06:57:00 +0100 3666232 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3666233&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F12-steps-of-nicotine-anonymous%2F Nicotine Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women helping each other to live our lives free of nicotine. We share our experience, strength and hope with each other so that we may be free from this powerful addiction. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using nicotine. There are no dues or fees for Nicotine Anonymous membership; we are self supporting through our own contributions. Nicotine Anonymous is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization or institution; does not engage in any controversy, neither endorses nor opposes any cause. Our primary purpose is to offer support to those who are trying to gain freedom from nicotine. The Twelve Steps of Nicotine Anonymous We admitted we were powerless over nicotine – that our lives had b... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3666233 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 05:23:09 +0100 3666233 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3666234&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Flife-is-a-mystery-2%2F Many people in early recovery from addiction, alcoholism, gambling and co-dependency are challenged by philosophical questions such as posed here. My life is… a mystery which I do not attempt to understand, as though I were led by the hand in a night where I see nothing, but can fully depend on the Love and Protection of Him Who guides me.     – Thomas Merton – When I laugh, God laughs.  When I weep, God weeps.  When I need, God says, “Yes.” I have come to know that there are many different ways to express spirituality and  know that the Universe is showing me my way.  Spirituality is not defined only as religion.  Spirituality is the yearning of the heart toward something larger than ourselves and the desire to leap the chasm that di... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3666234 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 05:15:00 +0100 3666234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3662960&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholics-anonymous-is-a-haven-of-hope-and-peace-2%2F Twice-Gifted My physical being has certainly undergone a transformation, but the major transformation has been spiritual. The hopelessness has been replaced by abundant hope and sincere faith. The people of Alcoholics Anonymous have provided a haven where, if I remain aware and keep my mind quiet long enough, my Higher Power leads me to amazing realizations. I find joy in my daily life, in being of service, in simply being. I have found rooms full of wonderful people, and for me each and every one of the Big Book’s promises have come true. The things that I have learned from my own experience, from the Big Book, and from my friends in AA – patience, acceptance, honesty, humility, and true faith in a Power greater than myself – are the tools I use today to live my life, th... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3662960 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 04:24:27 +0100 3662960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629875&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthird-step-prayer-as-used-by-dr-bob%2F Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Dr Bob originally used this prayer to hand his will and his life over to God as he understood God – the 3rd Step of 12 Step Fellowship recovery. Dear God, I’m sorry about the mess I’ve made of my life. I want to turn away from all the wrong things I’ve ever done and all the wrong things I’ve ever been. Please forgive me for it all. I know You have the power to change my life and can turn me into a winner. Thank You, God for getting my attention long enough to interest me in trying it Your way. God, please take over the management of my life and everything about me. I am making this conscious decision to turn my will and my life over to Your care and am asking You to please take over all parts of my life. Please, God, move into my h... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629875 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:17:00 +0100 3629875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629877&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fjust-for-today-i-will%2F Inspiration Just for Today Today I will not strike back: If someone is rude, if someone is impatient, if someone is unkind…. I will not respond in a like manner. Today I will ask God to bless my "enemy": If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly ask God to bless that individual. I understand the "enemy" could be a family member, neighbor, co-worker or stranger. Today I will be careful about what I say: I will carefully choose and guard my words being certain that I do not spread gossip. Today I will go the extra mile: I will find ways to help share the burden of another person. Today I will forgive: I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way. Today I will do something nice for someone, but I will do it secretly: I will r... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629877 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 08:52:29 +0100 3629877 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629878&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fprinciples-of-the-12-steps%2F Recovery through the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous Sgt. Bill S., used a one word summary to describe the basic principle (as he saw it) behind each of the 12 Steps, when he was giving talks to military personnel about alcoholism at Lackland in San Antonio, Texas, during the 1950’s and later on in California. In the following, quoted from Sgt. Bill S., ‘On the Military Firing Line in the Alcoholism Treatment Program’, Chapter 18, “Recovery through the Twelve Steps” The twelve steps lead people through a necessary therapeutic sequence involving; insight, surrender, positive goals, introspection, confession, submission humility, amendment, restitution, reorganization, spirituality, and love The 12-Steps and principles are therefore; INSIGHT: We admitted we were pow... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629878 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 18:25:27 +0100 3629878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3612065&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FFij5oeTx5qA%2F The 12 Steps Of Humor Anonymous We admitted we were grateful for the role humor plays in our recovery, and our laughter had become unmanageable. Came to believe a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity, and a little laughter now and then couldn’t hurt. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him, and laughed about how if we measured what we understood about God on a scale of one to ten, the needle on the gauge would probably point to minus one, and we don’t need to tell you which end of the scale is which, which makes us laugh, because we are desperate, aren’t we? Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves, and when appropriate, laughed at ourselves and the foibles of addiction. Admitted to God, to ours... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3612065 Sat, 29 May 2010 15:00:00 +0100 3612065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3612068&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FXv5AmC1NbnU%2F A recovery book Each year, hundreds of men and women cross the threshold of the Wolfe Street Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. Many of them attend the ‘Hour of Power,’ a weekly Sunday morning meeting focused on heightening one’s spiritual awareness and growth by focusing on the Eleventh Step of Alcoholics Anonymous: ‘Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.’ This special book, designed for weekly study, offers a prayer, a meditation, and related insights from the discussions that emerged during the ‘Hour of Power.’ Sought Through Prayer and Meditation . . . brings the insights of the collective consciousness o... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3612068 Fri, 28 May 2010 14:36:31 +0100 3612068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3599754&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FOf3nsZn65bQ%2F Quotations from ’Man’s Search for Meaning’ by Viktor E. Frankl On Choosing One’s Attitude “Everything can be taken from a man but …the last of the human freedoms – to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” p.104 “There is also purpose in life which is almost barren of both creation and enjoyment and which admits of but one possibility of high moral behavior: namely, in man’s attitude to his existence, an existence restricted by external forces.” p.106 On Committing to Values and Goals “Logotherapy…considers man as a being whose main concern consists in fulfilling a meaning and in actualizing values, rather than in the mere gratification and satisfaction of drives and instincts.” ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3599754 Tue, 25 May 2010 15:10:01 +0100 3599754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3595905&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FhH5TJQKZjf0%2F How often do we forget to meditate, smell the roses and to take time. Take time to think; it is the source of your power. Take time to play; it is the secret of your youth. Take time to read; it is the foundation of your knowledge. Take time to dream; it will take you to the stars. Take time to laugh; it really is your best medicine. Take time to pray; it is your touch with a Higher Power. Take time to reach out to others; it will give your life significance. - Gregory L. Jantz, Ph.D. From "Becoming Strong Again:How to Regain Emotional Health" See also Meditate to Concentrate Mindfulness for Recovery Inspirational Books The Inner Voice Touchstones Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore Hazelden Books, DVD's & Medalions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3595905 Sun, 23 May 2010 22:29:00 +0100 3595905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3599749&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FXKh_cv_hw3g%2F CONCLUSIONS: In the first 6 months of recovery, many dimensions of S/R increased, particularly those associated with behaviors and experiences. Values, beliefs, self-assessed religiousness, perceptions of a Higher Power, and the use of negative religious coping did not change. Increases in day-to-day experiences of spirituality and sense of purpose/meaning in life were associated with absence of heavy drinking at 6 months, regardless of gender and AA involvement. The results of this descriptive study support the perspective of many clinicians and recovering individuals that changes in alcoholics’ S/R occur in recovery and that such changes are important to sobriety. Robinson EA, Cranford JA, Webb JR, Brower KJ. Six month changes in spirituality religiousness and heavy drinking in a... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3599749 Sun, 23 May 2010 10:24:50 +0100 3599749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3589045&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fhlmcoj6aurE%2F The AA Recovery Program The relative success of the A.A. program seems to be due to the fact that an alcoholic who no longer drinks has an exceptional faculty for “reaching” and helping an uncontrolled drinker. In simplest form, the A.A. program operates when a recovered alcoholic passes along the story of his or her own problem drinking, describes the sobriety he or she has found in A.A., and invites the newcomer to join the informal Fellowship. The heart of the suggested program of personal recovery is contained in Twelve Steps describing the experience of the earliest members of the Society: We admitted we were powerless over alcohol – that our lives had become unmanageable. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. Made a decision to tur... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3589045 Fri, 21 May 2010 18:04:01 +0100 3589045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3570067&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FILxeAPe3mhg%2F People in recovery in 12 Step Fellowships use various tools at various times in their recovery. Some all the time, some when needed, some only in early recovery. But all tools listed here have proven to be effective at some time if not most times. 1. MEETINGS: We attend meetings to learn how the Program works, and to share our experiences, strengths, and hopes with others. In meetings we learn that our struggles and troubles are not unique, and we gain the hope and assurance that we can recover and grow. 2. SHARING AT MEETINGS: Being honest and vulnerable in front of our peers is frightening but worth it. Many of us believe that we recover in direct proportion to our willingness to share at meetings. 3. TELEPHONING: We use the phone to contact members between meetings. 4. DEVELOPING A SUPP... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3570067 Sun, 16 May 2010 17:00:01 +0100 3570067 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3570068&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FBqoDQ_ouBtI%2F A small circle of men listened attentively as their counselor at a mission in St. Paul announced their assignment. Their faces might have belonged to anyone–professionals with post-graduate degrees or homeless individuals who constantly struggle. But they were late-stage, chronic alcoholics, the kind who huddle beneath city bridges in the December cold or who simply revolve through local detox centers and shelters. All were searching for a reason to hope. A week earlier, the counselor had asked each of them to write a prayer. Everyone managed to come up with something, except one. The counselor asked if he had written something, and the man shook his head and stared dismally at the floor. Years on the street immersed in alcohol and gloom had left him isolated, estranged from everyone... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3570068 Sun, 16 May 2010 17:00:00 +0100 3570068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3566811&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Ftr3_N4_CUzA%2F Alcoholics Anonymous members have made the Serenity prayer part of recovery. It asserts five basic elements of the recovery program. A belief in something other than ego-self Serenity – one of the goals of recovery Acceptance of …, e.g., loss of control Courage to make changes Wisdom of recovery that is gained from other members, Spirituality, meditation and literature God grant me the Serenity to Accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, and Wisdom to know the difference.   Whether we belong to this church or that, whether we are humanists, agnostics, or atheists, most of us have found these words a wonderful guide in getting sober, staying sober, and enjoying our sobriety. Whether we see the Serenity Prayer as an actual prayer or... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3566811 Fri, 14 May 2010 20:19:44 +0100 3566811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3566812&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FukhZ9JvKvME%2F Anxiety Anxiety is experienced by all people, it is a normal reaction to stress, conflict, fear, change, threat, & etc or more usually there is no apparent reason for it to occur. When a person becomes aware, conscious or subconscious, that something is wrong or different, anxiety is triggered. But remember the actual cause may not be identifiable by you or anyone else. Anxiety can be regarded as a signal that change or action is needed. It can be an energy source to find the right solution and overcome inertia and make changes. Anxiety can occur in different strengths. It can cause a nudge, nag, demand, panic, or a ‘kick in the backside’, a ‘knock on the door’, or a major stress in life, a ‘rock bottom’. However anxiety reactions can have good and bad effects. It may res... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3566812 Fri, 14 May 2010 19:57:25 +0100 3566812 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3556380&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FdP0Rr9rrjwY%2F Self-forgiving is: Accepting yourself as a human who has faults and makes mistakes. Letting go of self anger for your past failures, errors, and mistakes. No longer needing penance, sorrow, and regret over a grievous, self-inflicted, personal offense. The act of self love after you have admitted your failure, mistake, or misdeed. The spiritual self healing of your heart by calming self rejection, quieting the sense of failure, and lightening the burden of guilt. The act of letting go of the need to work so hard to make up for your past offenses. Lack of self forgiveness can result in: A loss of love for yourself. Indifference toward yourself and your needs. An emotional vacuum in which little or no emotions are shown or shared. Chronic attacks or angry outbursts against self. Disrespe... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3556380 Sun, 09 May 2010 17:57:24 +0100 3556380 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3552561&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FGN9U1lhwzOc%2F Odysseus´ Voyage of Recovery The story of Odysseus is about more than just a Greek guy in a boat. About 3000 years ago, the poet Homer told a story about a man called Odysseus and his voyage home to Greece following the Trojan Wars. Odysseus and his men met up with many exciting adventures along the way, but the most relevant to us is the story of his landing on the Island of the Lotus Eaters. The island was so beautiful that Odysseus wanted to stay there awhile and rest up. So he sent out some scouts to determine if the natives were friendly. Odysseus waited and waited, but the scouts never returned. What had happened was this: the scouts had indeed met up with the locals, the Lotus Eaters, who turned out to be very friendly. The Lotus Eaters even shared their food with the scouts. But t... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3552561 Fri, 07 May 2010 15:59:54 +0100 3552561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3542886&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FSqIisdMO2Ak%2F 12-Step fellowship members in recovery will recognise the principles in Mychal’s prayer as similar to the Serenity prayer. Surrender Acceptance Courage Wisdom Mychal’s Prayer Lord, take me where You want me to go; Let me meet who You want me to meet; Tell me what You want me to say, and Keep me out of Your way. Written by Franciscan Friar, Mychal F.Judge, killed by debris at age 68, World Trade Center, 11th September 2001. Serenity Prayer God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference. An enduring prayer / spiritual meditation used by recovering people all around the world. See also 5 Finger Prayer Spirituality Books 12 Spiritual Questions Christianity & the 12 Steps So... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3542886 Fri, 07 May 2010 14:31:38 +0100 3542886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3545632&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fabstinence-is-only-one-part-of-recovery-2%2F The spirituality of recovery is about a new way of life As John Mac Dougall, manager of Spiritual Care at Hazelden, points out, abstinence is but one element in recovery from addiction. Many people quit drinking or another addiction only to start practicing it again. They don’t realize that quitting is merely the beginning of recovery, and they treat the symptoms of the disease and not the disease itself. "The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous only mention alcohol once, in Step One," reminds Mac Dougall. "The Twelve Step model of recovery that we suggest is spiritual. It’s about getting honest, finding a higher power, and admitting that you can’t do it alone." Spirituality, says Mac Dougall, is three-dimensional and deals with the quality and n... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3545632 Thu, 06 May 2010 16:51:00 +0100 3545632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3542891&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FBZKdcVJCVwY%2F Alcoholics, addicts, compulsive gamblers and codependents usually have elevated levels of anxiety and more anxiety attacks. There ways to deal with anxiety that are complimentary to the 12 Steps. These are; Accept that anxiety is a normal part of life. It is not a sign that you are going mad or a bad person Don’t try to find out the reason for your anxiety. Searching for a reason only increases it due to frustrated searching. You may not find the source because the cause is normally out of awareness, subconscious. Don’t try to control the anxiety. Attempting to control anxiety creates more anxiety and if control fails it only increases anxiety. Just let it be. Accept your anxiety as a signal Anxiety will lessen if you leave it alone. The thing that keeps anxiety alive is constant... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3542891 Thu, 06 May 2010 16:41:00 +0100 3542891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3534112&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fm53RPE5kEls%2F We admitted our lives were out of control Accepted that a Higher Power could help us Got my ego out of the way to let it happen Took a hard, honest look at ourselves Told someone the truth Got ready to change Asked a Higher Power to help us change Remembered all the people we hurt Made it right with them wherever we could Continued to stay honest Put our Higher Power in charge every day Tried to live our values and help others After the Alcoholics Anonymous suggested 12-Steps to recovery. See also A Woman’s Way Through the Twelve Steps Alcoholism and Fear Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul Online AA Meetings The Guy in the Mirror Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore Hazelden Books, DVD's & Medalions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3534112 Tue, 04 May 2010 16:18:00 +0100 3534112 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519718&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FEpiWRhseIRc%2F Twelve Steps of Sponsorship These can be applied to all 12-Step anonymous fellowships such as Al-anon, Alateen, Gamblers Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous etc I will not help you to stay and wallow in limbo. I will help you to grow, to become more productive, by your definition. I will help you become more autonomous, more loving of yourself, more excited, less sensitive, more free to become the authority for your own living. I cannot give you dreams or “fix you up” simply because I cannot. I cannot give you growth, or grow for you. You must grow for yourself by facing reality, grim as it may be at times. I cannot take away your loneliness or your pain. I cannot sense your world for you, evaluate your goals for you, tell you what is best for your world; because you ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519718 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 07:38:06 +0100 3519718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3522825&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FGfTJBtACRLc%2F The twelve-step recovery model of AA: a voluntary mutual help association Alcoholism treatment has evolved to mean professionalized, scientifically based rehabilitation. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is not a treatment method; it is far better understood as a Twelve-Step Recovery Program within a voluntary self-help/mutual aid organization of self-defined alcoholics. The Twelve-Step Recovery Model is elaborated in three sections, patterned on the AA logo (a triangle within a circle): The triangle’s legs represent recovery, service, and unity; The circle represents the reinforcing effect of the three legs upon each other as well as the “technology” of the sharing circle and the fellowship. The first leg of the triangle, recovery, refers to the journey of individuals to abstin... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3522825 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 06:49:56 +0100 3522825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519721&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FVDXYBlOzmsI%2F Reach in and find yourself “Tom, I’ve spent years and years looking for that ideal relationship. I searched for someone I could trust, and who would trust me. “I dreamed about this person who could love me no matter what, and who could share my deepest secrets. Someone I could admire and respect, and who would admire and respect me in return. “Well, Tom, I finally found that person.” “Wow!” said the sponsor. “Congratulations. Do I know this perfect person?” “Yes, it’s me.” The listener had to pause and take a breath, because his friend had made a very significant discovery…one that even your beloved author sometimes forgets: We’re our own best friends and faithful fans. Tattoo that on your forehead! More li... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519721 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:53:57 +0100 3519721 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3502989&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FGm0il1Jqc9k%2F Recovery, for me, was not just getting sober. Recovery also involved finding a new spiritual philosophy. I was often reminded of the slogan; ‘The man I was, was a drinker. The man I was would drink again.’ I had to change. And false humility was my primary character defect. I had shortcomings in the following areas of my attitudes. If one places ‘Principles Before Personalities’ and deals with ‘First Things First’, one approaches genuine humility, where there is enormous inner power. Actions to approach humility; Free yourself from the demands of your ego, and there is no limit to where you can go. Let go of your desire to control others, and you vastly improve the ability to control, focus and direct your own actions. Let go of the illusion that you already know it all, a... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3502989 Sat, 24 Apr 2010 11:48:14 +0100 3502989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3522831&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FgDG0Cy-PGuQ%2F AA & 12-Step Treatment AA Assists Alcoholics Avoid Alcohol AA Can Help Most Alcoholics AA Fact File AA’s 12-Step Recovery Program Al-Anon offers new life Alcohol and Anxiety Alcohol Problems Database Alcoholic Defense Mechanisms Alcoholics Anonymous and Nursing Alcoholics Anonymous Program in India Alcoholics can benefit from Al-Anon Alcoholics Have Trouble Identifying Emotions Alcoholism / Addiction Treatment Saves Money Alcoholism in women Alcoholism Treatment in a Nursing Home Altruism helps AA members stay sober An Introduction to Medication for Alcohol Dependence Anti-craving Drugs Attendance at Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings Binge Drinking & Brain Damage Brain Damage & Cirrhosis Brief Intervention in Emergency Room Effective Brief-TSF Descrip... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3522831 Sat, 24 Apr 2010 05:54:31 +0100 3522831 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3502993&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FAfYMWnFBPms%2F Excerpt from the author of the "Physician, Heal Thyself!", interview with the Grapevine (GV), the journal of Alcoholics Anonymous. October 1995 edition. GV: Have you had periods in sobriety that were Emotionally difficult? Dr. Earle: Oh my, yes. So did Bill-you know that Bill W had a long depression. Let me tell you how I got at some emotional rest. Years ago, a medical college in the South asked me to go to Saigon to help the Vietnamese set up a new department. Before I left, I went back to see Bill and Lois and Marty M. and some others, and I spent about eight or nine days back in New York before I went to Asia. Bill took me to the airport and on the way there he said, "You know, Earle, I’ve been sober longer than anyone else in our organization. But," he said,... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3502993 Fri, 23 Apr 2010 02:08:31 +0100 3502993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480934&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FcbTAXhrqxDY%2F Diffused nebula in Sagittarius; courtesy NASA Many people with newfound sobriety from addiction, alcoholism, gambling and codependency are challenged by philosophical questions such as posed here. My life is… a mystery which I do not attempt to understand, as though I were led by the hand in a night where I see nothing, but can fully depend on the Love and Protection of Him Who guides me.     – Thomas Merton – When I laugh, God laughs.  When I weep, God weeps.  When I need, God says, “Yes.” I have come to know that there are many different ways to express spirituality and  know that the Universe is showing me my way.  Spirituality is not defined only as religion.  Spirituality is the yearning of the heart toward something larger than ourselves and the desire to leap the... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480934 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 08:11:36 +0100 3480934 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480919&cid=t_135458_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fpraying-for-gods-will-and-strength-to.html Just attended on online AA meeting, and that was the topic of discussion.  I pray for that everyday now – the strength to carry out God’s will.  I have come to the conclusion that I only need a few certain things to feel mentally well and to stay sober, and I believe they are God’s will… 4 small sensible meals a day with a snack before bed.  No refined sugar and sugar rushes.  I have to be so careful about my bulimia. The 25 Snickers bars are going to mom along with a Edwards key lime pie. I also have 3 packages of cookies that are going to mom as well. These are all foods that make me want to binge.  Nutrition and keeping those four meals down is so key to me staying healthy mentally and physically.   No caffeine.  I have decided that was on... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480919 Sat, 17 Apr 2010 20:39:00 +0100 3480919 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480942&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F1sm2W4u0ViU%2F Today I will not strike back: If someone is rude, if someone is impatient, if someone is unkind…. I will not respond in a like manner. Today I will ask my Higher Power to bless my “enemy”: If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly ask My Higher Power to bless that individual. I understand the “enemy” could be a family member, neighbour, co-worker or stranger. Today I will be careful about what I say: I will carefully choose and guard my words being certain that I do not spread gossip. Today I will go the extra mile: I will find ways to help share the burden of another person. Today I will forgive: I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way. Today I will do something nice for someone, but I will do it secretly: I will... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480942 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:53:40 +0100 3480942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3458008&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FGdKUMUQq81M%2F A Man’s Way Through the 12 Steps A recovery book of outstanding merit. In A Man’s Way through the Twelve Steps, author Dan Griffin uses interviews with men in various stages of recovery, excerpts from relevant Twelve Step literature, and his own experience to offer an holistic, modern approach to sobriety for men. Readers work through each of the Twelve Steps, learn to surrender negative masculine scripts that have shaped who they are and how they approach recovery. Thus strengthening the positive and affirming aspects of manhood. This groundbreaking book offers the tools needed for men to work through key issues with which they commonly struggle, including: difficulty admitting powerlessness finding connection with a Higher Power letting go of repressed anger and resent... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3458008 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 16:08:00 +0100 3458008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3458010&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FTLkBpo67l3k%2F A channel for peace The 11th Step Guiding Prayer Alcoholics Anonymous’ 11th Step – Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out. Lord, make me a channel for thy peace – that where there is hatred, I may bring love – that where there is wrong, I may bring the spirit of forgiveness – that where there is discord, I may bring harmony – that where there is error, I may bring truth – that where there is doubt, I may bring faith – that where there is despair, I may bring hope – that where there are shadows, I may bring light – that where there is sadness, I may bring joy. Lord, grant that I may seek rather – to comfort than to be comforted... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3458010 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 01:14:00 +0100 3458010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3433172&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhy-why-is-the-wrong-question%2F Members of 12 Step Fellowships in recovery often catch themselves asking ‘why?.’ We are usually encouraged to talk to our sponsor, go to meetings; let go, let God. Good and most often successful solutions. But we are also usually encouraged to get active. These eight questions are complimentary to the 12 Step program. —— I am writing this with a broken neck… One minute I was playing footy, the next I was stretched out on a hospital bed with my neck in a brace which I will be wearing for the next 6-12 weeks. When faced with a crisis, our natural response is to ask "Why?" Why did this happen now? Why did this happen to me? But "Why?" may not be the most helpful question to ask. Sure, sometimes we need to understand the cause of the problem – p... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3433172 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 14:41:00 +0100 3433172 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3433176&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fbill-w-was-spiritual-not-religious%2F Bill and Lois Wilson in Stepping Stones garden I am currently reading Nell Wing’s book ‘Grateful to Have Been There; My 42 Years with Bill and Lois and the Evolution of Alcoholics Anonymous’. This is a revealing personality insight into Bill W. In a recent article I related what Nell said about Bill W. on Humility. Another passage that caught my attention is; ‘I think Bill was essentially nonreligious – which may seem paradoxical, because he was deeply spiritual. His whole life was changed by a profound religious experience. The Oxford Group, which was responsible for his early sobriety, was regarded as a religious movement, though their concept of a Higher Power left a lot of latitude for personal interpretation. I have already mentioned Bill’s affection for and reliance on hi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3433176 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:25:00 +0100 3433176 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3429460&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FNXR38Vc_hIM%2F Twice-Gifted [In recovery] My physical being has certainly undergone a transformation, but the major transformation has been spiritual. The hopelessness has been replaced by abundant hope and sincere faith. The people of Alcoholics Anonymous have provided a haven where, if I remain aware and keep my mind quiet long enough, my Higher Power leads me to amazing realizations. I find joy in my daily life, in being of service, in simply being. I have found rooms full of wonderful people, and for me each and every one of the Big Book’s promises have come true. The things that I have learned from my own experience, from the Big Book, and from my friends in AA – patience, acceptance, honesty, humility, and true faith in a Power greater than myself – are the tools I use to... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3429460 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:59:00 +0100 3429460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420761&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faa-for-youth%2F • “If I could have stayed cool, I’d still be drinking. Very quickly, though, I started getting into trouble. Going to sixth grade got in the way of my life, which consisted of getting drunk as much as possible.” [After rehab] “I was going to A.A. meetings. Everyone was older, even most of the kids at the young people meetings. But I found that alcoholics understand other alcoholics. . . . Regardless of how young or old or ‘special’ I am, in A.A. I’m just a drunk.” Tina, who joined A.A. at 13 • “I loved drinking and was as addicted to the lies, the shady people and places as I was to the alcohol. My grades suffered until I stopped going to school altogether. . . . I found myself in places without any idea of how I had gotten there. I overdosed on alcohol.” Since comi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420761 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:46:59 +0100 3420761 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420764&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fbill-w-on-humility%2F I am currently reading Nell Wing’s book ‘Grateful to Have Been There; My 42 Years with Bill and Lois and the Evolution of Alcoholics Anonymous’. This is a revealing personality insight into Bill W. One passage that caught my attention is; “I’ve listened many time as Bill explained his own view of humility. According to him, we need to follow the Greek ‘middle way’ – to strike a balance. We should neither wear the Uriah Heep cloak of false humility, which Bill called ‘force-feeding of humble pie,’ nor stray the other way into pride of material achievements and admiration of one’s own importance. Bill’s definition of humility was willingness to seek God’s will in one’s life and then follow it. I’m reminded of a statement I once saw on the bulletin board of an al... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420764 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:22:00 +0100 3420764 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416336&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Frecovery-in-marijuana-anonymous%2F The practice of rigorous honesty, of opening our hearts and minds, and the willingness to go to any lengths to have a spiritual awakening are essential to our recovery. Our old ideas and ways of life no longer work for us. Our suffering shows us that we need to let go absolutely. We surrender ourselves to a Power greater than ourselves. Here are the steps we take which are suggested for recovery: The Twelve Steps of Marijuana Anonymous We admitted we were powerless over marijuana, that our lives had become unmanageable. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God, as we understood God. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to a... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416336 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 16:51:00 +0100 3416336 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3412595&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FkN-RG_BF9hE%2F Recovery from alcoholism in Alcoholics Anonymous. AA is a self-help, volunteer organization begun in the mid-1930s that views alcoholism as a disease, not a defect of will. Its founders, themselves alcoholics, maintained that persons with the disease should completely stop drinking, but they did not concern those who could handle alcohol. This position contrasted with the premises of most temperance advocates, who saw drinking as a moral choice and opposed any alcohol use by anyone. The Twelve Steps embody the wisdom of the founders of AA about pursuing ongoing recovery from alcoholism. The procedure they describe has evolved into one of the most successful programs for helping alcoholics. Many drug treatment programs also have based themselves on this twelve-step model. The abbrevi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3412595 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 19:30:00 +0100 3412595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3411290&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FRGIVIhfYXlM%2F Since September 11, 2001, there are indications that there has been a resurgence of people seeking comfort and solace and searching to define or redefine their faith. Reverend Monserrat maintains that this is quite possible, since faith is not a quality of mind or personality, but a skill that can be learned. In Faith It Until You Make It, he shows readers how to develop their faith so that they can overcome any adversity and accomplish their dreams. Based upon years in the church, Reverend Monserrat has developed this nondenominational book of practical spirituality based upon an Evolution of Faith Matrix which shows the four stages of faith: Natural, Lost, Educated and Enlightened. Using inspiring and provocative stories from other people who have discovered or regained their fai... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3411290 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 15:42:00 +0100 3411290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3411291&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FjMPXlnm3cUo%2F The dynamics of the healthy family. In previous articles I have talked about Dysfunctional Families, Goals for ACOA’s in Recovery, Al-Anon, Dysfunctional Rules of Codependency and Alcoholic Family Roles. In a healthy family system, family members openly acknowledge their problems, discuss them openly, and work toward change. They believe change is acceptable, and actively solicit workable solutions from other family members. Children in these families are free to express their needs and wants. Family members can talk about feelings and traits in themselves that they feel should be changed: shame and embarrassment do not immobilize them. There is permission to express appropriate anger. The adults of the family model healthy, congruent behavior for their children: what they tell the... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3411291 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 10:39:22 +0100 3411291 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3411294&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FpA0nfsoEWoI%2F Sex Addicts Anonymous “We found in each other what we could find nowhere else: people who knew the depth of our pain. Together we found hope and the care of a loving Higher Power. Our commitment is to help others recover from sexual addiction, just as we have been helped.” — Sex Addicts Anonymous, p. 2 As a fellowship of recovering addicts, Sex Addicts Anonymous offers a message of hope to anyone who suffers from sex addiction. Through long and painful experience, we came to realize that we were powerless over our sexual thoughts and behaviors and that our preoccupation with sex was causing progressively severe adverse consequences for us, our families, and our friends. Despite many failed promises to ourselves and attempts to change, we discovered that we were unable to stop acting... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3411294 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 12:11:23 +0100 3411294 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3395376&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FxOk51y7Hn70%2F The art of living lies not in eliminating but in growing with troubles. – Bernard M. Baruch Naturally, we wish to avoid pain and difficulty, but life experience and a measure of reflection show us that most of what comes our way is beyond our control. We’ll never outwit all the possibilities for trouble, even if we live to be 100 years old. We have often failed to learn from trouble because we cast ourselves in the roles of passive men and victims. We pointed outside ourselves and said, “Look at what is happening to poor me!” When we use trouble as our teacher, we develop the art of living. We are taking a spiritual approach, using our Higher Power as our guide. We can choose today to use our difficulties for our learning and growth. We might ask, “What can I ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3395376 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 22:17:56 +0100 3395376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3390996&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdetachment-with-love-3%2F Alcoholism is a family disease. Living with the effects of someone else’s drinking is too devastating for most people to bear without help. In Al-anon we learn individuals are not responsible for another person’s disease or recovery from it. We let go of our obsession with another’s behavior and begin to lead happier and more manageable lives, lives with dignity and rights; lives guided by a Power greater than ourselves. In Al-Anon we learn: Not to suffer because of the actions or reactions of other people; Not to allow ourselves to be used or abused by others in the interest of another’s recovery; Not to do for others what they could do for themselves; Not to manipulate situations so others will eat, go to bed, get up, pay bills, not drink; Not to cover up for anyone’s mistakes... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3390996 Sun, 21 Mar 2010 16:42:00 +0100 3390996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3387057&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FrqkKtPlxxk8%2F Step Ten; Building the spiritual basis for recovery each day The Twelve Step program of recovery from alcoholism and other addictions rests on a notion of spirituality that is not about having the “right” beliefs. Instead, it is about adopting daily practices that help people stay clean and sober. These daily practices are the subject of Step Ten of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous: “Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.” Here the word “inventory” means taking stock of our emotional disturbances, especially those that can return us to drinking or other drug use. Step Ten suggests that we watch for these disturbances every day and make an immediate response. Taking a daily inventory is important to all p... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3387057 Sun, 21 Mar 2010 16:31:00 +0100 3387057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3391000&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fi-am-a-cocaine-addict-2%2F My name is Paul and I am a Cocaine Addict. I was born in Liverpool, the second son in a family of five boys and one girl. My father was a Liverpool dockworker who used to come home from work via the pub every night. I remember my parents would fight physically, and more often than not my Dad would be so drunk my Mum would win. My elder brother used to climb out of the window and go to the phone box at the top of our street. Using a false name he would call the police to report a disturbance at our address then calmly climb back through the window and go to sleep. I knew the effect alcohol had on people I had seen first hand the destructive nature of drunkards and I swore I would never drink and I would never be like my Dad. I was going to be famous a rock star or an actor. I didn’t reall... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3391000 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 17:00:55 +0100 3391000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3385561&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fh7YEpL-p7W8%2F : A model of progression The spiritual progression of 14 members of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was studied using a transtheoretical approach, with object relations theory as a primary framework. The subjects were aged 35-45, had a minimum of one year of continuous sobriety, and professed belief in the efficacy of the Twelve Steps. The subjects participated in multiple-subject interviews and completed a questionnaire. A six-stage model of spiritual progression was developed. It is noted that within AA, spiritual progression in recovery is based on application of AA’s Twelve Suggested Steps of Recovery. stage one marks the beginning of recovery, stages two and three address relationships with God; stage four relates to subjects’ relationships with themselves; stage five relates t... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3385561 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 21:58:47 +0100 3385561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3383088&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Faf-VlOItELU%2F Altruism emerges when thoughts focus on a Higher Power Many members of 12-Step Fellowships such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-anon, ACOA, Narcotics Anonymous and Alateen, will agree with this research. Thoughts related to a Higher Power cultivate cooperative behaviour and generosity, according to University of British Columbia psychology researchers. In a study to be published in Psychological Science journal, researchers investigated how thinking about a Higher Power and notions of a Higher Power influenced positive social behaviour, specifically cooperation with others and generosity to strangers. Azim Shariff and Ara Norenzayan found that priming people with ’Higher Power concepts’ — by activating subconscious thoughts through word games — promoted selflessness. In additio... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3383088 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:33:00 +0100 3383088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3383090&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FGJkfwjQzZwo%2F Genuine Christianity is more than a set of beliefs–it is a relationship with Jesus Christ that involves hearing His voice and following His directions. But how does one do this? What tools or spiritual disciplines enable Christians to live out their lives in dynamic submission to God’s will? Perhaps no set of principles is better suited to help Christians hear God’s voice and submit to His will than the Twelve Steps. As a Christian who practices the Steps, Saul Selby knows them to be an invaluable tool for living out the Christian faith. Selby brings his knowledge to bear in Twelve Step Christianity, which teaches Christians in recovery to connect their faith with their program–and shows any Christian a clear path to a more intimate relationship with Christ. Laid o... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3383090 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 23:19:00 +0100 3383090 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3383095&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F6R862cUmVc4%2F Spiritual Awakening is a process that happens within us. It is recognizing that a power greater than ourselves exists and can assist us if we will just ask for help and guidance. We do not have to “do it on our own.” Part of the awakening includes a new way of internally and externally handling events as they occur. We can learn to internally process the event differently so that it has a different meaning (thought), followed by a different internal action (emotion), and a different external action (behavior). The process of this “event-changing” happens within us. The events do not change, my relationship to the events changes. Therefore, the challenge becomes about overcoming the internal conflict between the false self that is creating the misperceptions, and the Real Self that ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3383095 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:45:44 +0100 3383095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3385555&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FRgK8HtiR1JU%2F What can be confidently said about AA in general and about the role of spirituality in AA in particular? First, there is convincing evidence that alcoholism severity predicts later AA attendance. Second, atheists are less likely to attend AA, relative to individuals who already hold spiritual and/or religious beliefs. However, belief in God before AA attendance does not offer any advantage in AA-related benefits, and atheists, once involved, are at no apparent disadvantage in deriving AA-related benefits. Third, the spiritually-based principles of AA appear to be endorsed in AA meetings regardless of the perceived social dynamics or climate of a particular meeting, eg, highly cohesive or aggressive. Fourth, significant increases in spiritual and religious beliefs and practices seem to oc... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3385555 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 02:26:00 +0100 3385555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374386&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fa-vision-for-you-2%2F ‘A vision for you’ is the title of chapter 11 of the Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book. This phrase is often used to refer to the last three paragraphs of chapter 11 and is sometimes read at AA meetings. “Our book is meant to be suggestive only. We realize we know only a little. The Higher Power will constantly disclose more to you and to us. Ask Him in your morning meditation what you can do each day for the man who is still sick. The answers will come, if your own house is in order. But obviously you cannot transmit something you haven’t got. See to it that your relationship with Him is right, and great events will come to pass for you and countless others. This is the Great Fact for us. Abandon yourself to Higher Power as you understand Higher Power. Admit your faults to Him... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374386 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 18:01:57 +0100 3374386 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374389&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-loneliness-of-an-alcoholic-doctor%2F The way I see it My very first drink loosened my previous, ever present inhibitions. Medical school facilitated my growing reliance on this chemical. Six years later, after qualifying, I found an identity to hide behind, at least during the day. I was the all knowing, devoted, and respected professional, who daily appeared red eyed and trembling. But I was forgiven by supervisors because I worked hard. After all, I was in my house jobs. Then I worked as a casualty officer, on the front line, mistakenly believing that I could cope with the stress, long hours, and unpredictability and daily masking my sensitivity to the extremes of human pain and suffering—until I left work. There was always an excuse to reward myself after a stressful day, such as spending the whole shift in “resus&... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374389 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 23:55:00 +0100 3374389 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370690&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FDzHwfBiCKLU%2F The strength of our recovery is in direct proportion to our ability to laugh at ourselves. Laughter heals, particularly the laughter that comes when we understand the lifesaving difference between “how it was” before recovery and “how it is” living in sobriety. These hearty cartoons and humorous anecdotes reflect with powerful clarity how our drinking or drug-using days contrast with our lives today. Laughter helps us celebrate our recovery and it reminds us how grateful we are for sobriety and for the priceless camaraderie of people in Twelve Step Fellowships. - Order today >> God Grant Me The Laughter - Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore Hazelden Books, DVD's & Medalions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370690 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:31:00 +0100 3370690 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370691&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FjQHSDwB0aaY%2F On the way to a new life The spirituality of recovery is about a new way of life As John Mac Dougall, manager of Spiritual Care at Hazelden, points out, abstinence is but one element in recovery from addiction. Many people quit drinking or another addiction only to start practicing it again. They don’t realize that quitting is merely the beginning of recovery, and they treat the symptoms of the disease and not the disease itself. “The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous only mention alcohol once, in Step One,” reminds Mac Dougall. “The Twelve Step model of recovery that we suggest is spiritual. It’s about getting honest, finding a higher power, and admitting that you can’t do it alone.” Spirituality, says Mac Dougall, is three-dimensional and dea... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370691 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 18:50:00 +0100 3370691 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3366435&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FRgiuxGfFg0Y%2F The spiritual adventure of Alcoholics Anonymous as experienced by individual members. Over 75 A.A. members from all over the world describe the wide diversity of convictions implied in “God as we understood Him.” Especially helpful to those who confuse “spiritual” with “religious.” - Order now >> Came to Believe - Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore Hazelden Books, DVD's & Medalions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3366435 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 22:36:00 +0100 3366435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3366438&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FbKboQXuS1pw%2F Seek and yee shall find These Ten Pointers are a summary of the lifesaving directions to recovery from alcoholism given in ‘How It Works’, chapter 5 of Alcoholics Anonymous – the AA Big Book. Completely give yourself to this simple Program. Practice rigorous honesty. Be willing to go to any lengths to recover. Be fearless and thorough in your practice of the principles. Realize that there is no easier, softer way. Let go of your old ideas, absolutely. Recognize that half measures will not work. Ask a Higher Power’s protection and care with complete abandon. Be willing to grow along spiritual lines. Accept the following ideas: that you cannot manage your own life; that probably no human power can restore you to sanity; that A Higher Power can and will if sought. See also 12 Sp... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3366438 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 18:04:28 +0100 3366438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3363822&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FpNq3mIyEtkA%2F The brick wall of insanity As opposed to the 12-Steps to recovery I decided I could handle my emotional problems if other people would just quit trying to run my life. I firmly believed that there is no greater power than myself, and anyone who said so was insane. I made a decision to remove my will and my life from God who didn’t understand me anyhow. I made a searching and thorough moral inventory of everyone I knew so they couldn’t fool me and take advantage of my good nature. I sought these people out and tried to get them to admit to me, by God, the exact nature of their wrongs. I became willing to help these people get rid of these defects of character. I was humble enough to ask these people to remove their shortcomings. I kept a list of all the people who had harmed m... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3363822 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 23:46:00 +0100 3363822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3354584&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FaLk9V9iBG0M%2F What is Spirituality? "Spirituality is an awakening—or is it all the loose ends woven together into a mellow fabric? It’s understanding—or is it all the knowledge one need ever know? It’s freedom—if you consider fear slavery. It’s confidence—or is it the belief that a higher power will see you through any storm or gale? It’s adhering to the dictates of your conscience—or is it a deep, genuine, living concern for the people and the planet? It’s peace of mind in the face of adversity. It’s a keen and sharpened desire for survival. From; AA book – Came to Believe, 2004, pg. 5 See also Spiritual Health Blockages SPIRITUAL AWAKENING Spirituality Books Inspirational Books 12 Spiritual Questions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3354584 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 18:29:39 +0100 3354584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3350582&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FxDSWkEleCTk%2F Trust Your Higher Power, But Tie Up Your Camel There was once a man who was on his way back home from market with his camel and, as he’d had a good day, he decided to stop along the road and offer his thanks to his Higher Power. He left his camel outside and went in and spent several hours offering thanks to, praying and promising that he’d be a good person in the future, help the poor and be an upstanding pillar of his community. When he emerged it was already dark and lo and behold – his camel was gone! He immediately flew into a violent temper and shook his fist at the sky, yelling: "You traitor, God! How could you do this to me? I put all my trust in you and then you go and stab me in the back like this!" A passing sufi dervish heard the man yelling and ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3350582 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:30:31 +0100 3350582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3350583&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FcIE2r-7gKE8%2F We Agnostics “… Yet we had been seeing another kind of flight, a spiritual liberation from this world, people who rose above their problems. They said [the Higher Power] made these things possible, and we only smiled. We had seen spiritual release, but liked to tell ourselves it wasn’t true. Actually we were fooling ourselves, for deep down in every man, woman, and child, is the fundamental idea of [a Higher Power]. It may be obscured by calamity, by pomp, by worship of other things, but in some form or other it is there. For faith in a Power greater than ourselves, and miraculous demonstrations of that power in human lives, are facts as old as man himself. We finally saw that faith in some kind of [Higher Power] was a part of our make-up, just as much as the feeling we have for ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3350583 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:17:01 +0100 3350583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3346729&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FqgkjAm7exAg%2F Willingness is the key The Higher Power Is Good “Before Alcoholics Anonymous, I could not, or would not, admit I was wrong. My pride would not let me. And yet I was ashamed of me. Caught in this conflict, I banished the Higher Power from my life because I felt He asked me to adhere to a behavior pattern too high for a man of my human frailty. Somehow, I believed that there could be no forgiveness of any failure, that he Higher Power required me to be all good. The moral of the story of the Prodigal Son eluded me. “Since I thought trying was not enough, I stopped trying. That made me feel guilty. For a while, alcohol blotted out the guilt. Then alcohol became the greatest cause of my guilt. I had to be beaten to a pulp physically, mentally and emotionally, become bankrupt in all... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3346729 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:17:56 +0100 3346729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3346735&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fl3snMy8Kcw0%2F My name is Michael and I’m a clergy alcoholic in AA I am a Roman Catholic priest, a pastor of souls with the title of monsignor. I am also an alcoholic. A few months ago, I celebrated an anniversary of ordination. A month before that, I celebrated a more important anniversary, my fourth as a member of A.A. Why do I say that my anniversary in A.A. is a more important date than my ordination anniversary? The answer is that through A.A. my Higher Power, God, has not only saved my life and restored me to sanity, but has given me a new way of life and has immeasurably enriched my priesthood. Thus, thanks to God and A.A. I am today striving honestly and sincerely, despite many shortcomings, to fulfil my priestly vocation in the manner that God intended. My sobriety has to be the most impor... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3346735 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 06:18:54 +0100 3346735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3339816&cid=t_135458_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FxnsWeWhW_zE%2F 15 POINTS FOR AN ALCOHOLIC TO CONSIDER WHEN CONFRONTED WITH THE URGE TO TAKE A DRINK THE UNHAPPIEST PERSON in the world is the chronic Alcoholic who has an insistent yearning to enjoy life as he once knew it, but cannot picture life without alcohol. He has a HEART-BREAKING OBSESSION that by some miracle of control he will be able to do so. SOBRIETY, THE MAGNICFICENT OBSESSION, is the most important thing in your life without exception. You may believe your job, or your home life, or one of the many other things come first. But consider, if you do not get sober and stay sober, chances are you won’t have a job, a family, sanity, or even life. If you are convinced that everything in life depends on your sobriety, you have just so much more chance of getting sober and staying sober. If y... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3339816 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:29:37 +0100 3339816