I am unable to account for how others perceive, pursue, or define ‘recovery’. I am open-minded to
another’s perceptions and definitions as I have learned that each person’s take is unique when it comes
to their personal understanding, experience, values, culture, belief system, familial influence, etc... In
this respect, I will share where I am.

 

Long story short, I struggled for a long time with crack addiction and the life issues that arise therein. I
am 44 now and I have been walking in deliverance for 16 years. I do realize that everyone may not
understand or agree with my position and that is ok. For me, I believe that the pursuit of health, growth,
and longevity are lifelong processes. This encompasses my whole person, not just one area of my life.
The only reason I continue to walk in deliverance is because of the Grace of God. It is my faith in Jesus
Christ that gives me the strength to be the best me today.

I am intentional in my pursuit of learning, growing, being teachable in all areas, even when it is difficult. I
struggle like anyone else. I have learned that active substance use and dependence begin long before
the substance is ingested for an individual in ‘recovery’. Thus, I have learned to self-examine so as not to
allow old habits, mindsets, or behaviors to resurface or take root. I also have people I trust to be honest
with me when I am not seeing things myself. It is not easy to look at one’s self or have others check you
intentionally. However, I have learned that my feelings will heal, and I will be better for having listened
to correction when it is deserved.

 

I do not like making excuses for myself. There is a difference between understanding why and making an excuse. 

Understanding why allows you and the other person to have a better view of the issue with the intent to heal, fix,

and/or alter for a more positive and intentional outcome. An excuse is a way of rationalizing a wrong attitude,
behavior, choice, lie, etc... with the intent of getting out of trouble or for validation.
Regardless, I believe the journey and pursuit of health and wellness are lifelong and one must be
intentional. Each person’s pursuit and journey should be unique as there are no two people alike. If
labels, tools, techniques, and mindsets that do not flow with my journey work for another person and
improves their health and functioning, then I will be happy to aid them. I am eclectic in my approach for
this very reason. As long as we remain God-honoring and promote overall health and wellness, then it is
worth taking the time to learn and utilize whatever methods and tools we can.