One of things I appreciate most about the recovery community is the way everyone encourages self reflection by freely sharing, out loud, openly and honestly, some of the most powerful experiences of their lives. These shares can be revelatory both for the people listening and for the person sharing. At first, I only wanted to share after I had rehearsed the words in my head, trying to deliver something funny and yet insightful, revealing but not too revealing. Those didn’t feel right; they didn’t feel honest. I had to learn to be comfortable opening my mouth to share before I knew what I was going to say - something that I have never been comfortable doing. I have found that this kind of sharing, where I know I have something to say on the topic but I don’t know what it is until the words start coming out of my mouth, is the kind of sharing that does me the most good. Sharing in a meeting has a similar effect as writing a blog post. When the words are coming out I’m learning something about myself, and the fact that other people are hearing (or might read) those words somehow makes it more real, or gives it a larger impact, or makes it more healing. Listening to, and reading the experiences of other people also helps. It can confirm or validate my own experiences, or give me new insight into myself. And it creates a connection between me and other people that I know, somehow, is a core part of the human experience but which has consistently eluded me for so many years.
Sam - my heart is so full right now after reading your latest piece. You’ve described so well the healing power of honest unfiltered sharing and listening during recovery meetings. Your sharing about the hurtful tendency to keep score and hold resentments is spot on for the majority of alcoholics, including myself. I’ll gladly be sharing what you’ve offered here, as I know it will help others who are struggling with all sorts of addictions, as well as autism, to see themselves in your reflection and hopefully reach out for help. Thank you!
Sam - my heart is so full right now after reading your latest piece. You’ve described so well the healing power of honest unfiltered sharing and listening during recovery meetings. Your sharing about the hurtful tendency to keep score and hold resentments is spot on for the majority of alcoholics, including myself. I’ll gladly be sharing what you’ve offered here, as I know it will help others who are struggling with all sorts of addictions, as well as autism, to see themselves in your reflection and hopefully reach out for help. Thank you!
Thank you so much, Sally. I am really grateful for your comment. It means a lot.