A message from the Publisher of Recovery Times

A familiar phrase to those of us active in 12 Step recovery. Engraved on many a sobriety medallion or coin “To thine own self be true” is a reminder that before we can even consider helping another brother or sister in recovery we must be certain that we are in fit spiritual condition.

At first glance this phrase may appear selfish and self centered. But in fact it is a corner stone to developing the art of giving.

We know that what we have been given in our recovery is a gift that we are not worthy of. The blessings we have received come from a power greater than ourselves. Having been around the world of recovery for a time we become convinced that in order to keep what we have been given we must give it away. But we also know that we can not give away what we do not have.

Putting ourselves first as it relates to our recovery will prepare us for the job ahead. The privilege of giving away and sharing our experience, strength and hope comes with a price. We must be true to our recovery. For many that would include prioritizing our life style in and out of the rooms of our fellowships.

Today my priorities are as follows.

1. God, That goes with out saying.

2. My personal application and implementation of a healthy recovery program

3. My wife and two boys

4. My service work through my home group, church and community.

Finding the proper order of priorities was not my strong suit, so it took allot of work and determination to build  a proper structure.

This week I will double check my priorities. Do I first ask God to guide me through my day? Am I remaining true to my own recovery? Do the needs of my family come before others? Am I willing to give freely what has been so freely given to me?

If I am unsure I will re-evaluate my priorities and remember the wisdom of the directive “To thine own self be true”

Until Next week this is Montyman wishing “Serenity For You”