"Change from self–destructive patterns of life became necessary"

Active addiction is a smoldering death–wish. Each of us courted death every time we used. Our lifestyles, too, put us at risk. The life of an addict is sold cheaply with every day and every dose.

In recovery, the first pattern we change is the pattern of using. Staying clean is the start of our journey into life. But our self–destructive behavior usually went far deeper than just our using.

Even in recovery, we may still treat ourselves as if we are worthless. When we treat ourselves badly, we feel badly. And when we feel badly, we seek relief–maybe even in our old solution, drugs.

Choosing recovery means choosing life. We decide each day that we want to live and be free. Each time we avoid self–destructive behavior, we choose recovery.

Just for today: I will choose life by choosing recovery. I will take care of myself.