Responsibility

“A lot happens in one day, both negative and positive. If we do not take the time to appreciate both, perhaps we will miss something that will help us grow.”

Responsibility, responsibility — the responsibilities of life are everywhere. Now in recovery, on top of normal responsibility, we’re “supposed to” stop gambling, learn to structure and pay for our debts, learn to hold on to a job, go to GA meetings and practice our recovery program as best we can (with honesty, open-mindedness and willingness)

It’s no wonder that, sometimes, we want to run from all these tasks and escape to some far-off island where we’re not “supposed to” do anything! Many times like these, when we’ve become overwhelmed with our responsibilities, we have forgotten that responsibility need not be burdensome.

When we have a desire to run away from our responsibilities we need to slow down, remember why we have chosen them, and pay attention to the gifts they bring. Whether it’s a job we normally find challenging and interesting, or a partner whose personality we are usually excited by, or a child whom we naturally like to play with and care for, there is joy to be found in all the responsibilities of our lives.

The goal in recovery is to find the balance : we take responsibility for ourselves, and we identify our true responsibilities to others. We will need to be gentle with ourselves while we learn.

Just for today: Each moment is special. I will pay attention, grateful for my responsibilities and the special joys they bring.