Originally Posted by
keithj 
Not really. The viewpoint comes from someone who is unable to stay sober. Forgiving myself, learning from my relapse, etc.; have those things enabled that person to stay sober? Has it worked for them?
And I don't mean to be offensive to coming_clean. If those ideas worked, he'd be staying sober instead of continually relapsing. The facts are what they are.
I liked what you said about guilt,.........it's like a cancer to some-ones recovery.
I know in my early recovery I went through all the doubtful questions in my mind,....is it worth it,...and so on.
I have relapsed in thought but never picked up
(relapse starts with a thought or feeling that one can't process in a healthy manner, picking up is the end result)
for me picking up means I will die! I've been told my thinking is black and white but that's what has worked for me.
I'm still participating with the aftercare group at the rehab centre I went through and I see guys relapse all the time,...I've been to a couple funerals as well.
Cunning,..baffling,..and powerful. So true,...
but one thing I know is I can't do some one else's recovery for them.
I can offer my experiences and encourage 12 step meetings.
I have to accept that others have to find their own way,....I only know what works for me. I pray every day for the alcoholic or addict that still suffers,........
because it breaks my heart that this disease can destroy so many beautiful people.
What kept me going were the slogans,...keep an open mind and keep coming back. Eventually the mind will follow.
I try not to sound preachy because I know it doesn't do anyone any good,...
I try to encourage people to just hang in there for one more day.
"Today" and tomorrow will look after itself.