Being ourselves
“Our real value is in being ourselves.”
Basic Text, p.101
Over and over, we have tried to live up to the expectations of those around us. We
may have been raised believing that we were okay if we earned good grades in
school, cleaned our rooms, or dressed a certain way. Always wanting to belong and
be loved, many of us spent a lot of time trying to fit in-yet we never quite seemed to
measure up.
Now, in recovery, we are accepted as we are. Our real value to others is in being
ourselves. As we work the steps, we learn to accept ourselves just as we are. Once
this happens, we gain the freedom to become who we want to be.
We each have many good qualities we can share with others. Our experiences,
honestly shared, help others find the level of identification they need to begin their
recovery. We discover that we all have special gifts to offer those around us.
Just for today: My experience in recovery is the greatest gift I can give another
addict. I will share myself honestly with others.