“People say that what we’re all seeking is a meaning for life. I don’t think that’s what we’re really seeking. I think that what we’re seeking is an experience of being alive.” — Joseph Campbell Each and everyone of us want to know the “Why”! It is a natural phenomena that occurs in us. We … Read more
“Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” – Steve Jobs There is no doubt in my mind that the number one desire of every human being is “happiness”. Happiness comes in many forms. Being connected to God brings us enormous … Read more
“If you haven’t forgiven yourself something, how can you forgive others?” – Dolores Huerta The burden of guilt and shame can hold you back from attaining a happy, joyous and free life. In a crowd of two through thousands of people looking to recover from addiction if you ask who wants to be happy? Every one … Read more
We are all worthy of great reward in life. No matter how we have failed and no matter how many times we have failed we are always worthy. Surely, a case can be made against the psychopath or the apathetic folks of our society. But most of us do not fit into that category. Many … Read more
“Find the good. It’s all around you. Find it, showcase it and you’ll start believing in it.” – Jesse Owens My goal over the past twelve or so years has been to look for the positive in everything first. I wish I could report to you that I have not failed in that mission. What I … Read more
Twenty-seven years ago today I walked out from under the supervision of the New York State Department of Correctional Services. I have never returned with the exception of the times I have visited a friend, during my work or my ministry. Many people have not been as fortunate. Many people get on the merry-go-round … Read more
As the newcomer begins recovery by going either to rehab and/or 12 step meetings chances are there will be discomfort and confusion. I know this was the case for me. I knew I didn’t want to drink or use but was expecting a magic saying to help me achieve this. I was not sure how … Read more
Today’s blog is a continuation of the previous blog discussing the topic of accepting one’s dependency on drugs/alcohol. In my experience, refusal to accept the fact that I was powerless over my dependence on alcohol/drugs led to attempts to self-help the condition. I was eventually driven to isolation and a deeper despair. To me, asking … Read more
Over the next few weeks I will be writing a series of blogs called “Relapse Prevention”. I will cover topics and provide information based on the experience of recovered people designed to assist in early recovery. I have always been amazed by the determination of the newcomer in their first week of recovery. Chances are … Read more
“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” — Jim Ryun There are two types of motivation: The motivation to attain something we want, in other words we are running towards pleasure and the second is the avoidance of pain. In the beginning stages of recovery, the end days so to … Read more