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The journey of recovery often presents us with challenges that, at first glance, appear external but ultimately reveal much about our internal growth. One such challenge is our attitude towards others within the recovery community, especially those we initially find difficult or disagreeable. The wisdom from the Basic Text of Narcotics Anonymous offers a profound insight into this dynamic, suggesting that as we engage with the Twelve Steps, not only do our lives change, but so too does our perception of others.
It’s not uncommon to encounter someone in the early days of recovery whom we find particularly challenging. This person may embody everything we believe is wrong within the recovery space—rudeness, obnoxiousness, or even outright hostility. The advice often given to us is simple yet puzzling: keep coming back, and you’ll see them get better. Implicit in this guidance is the faith in the transformative power of the Steps, not just for others, but crucially, for ourselves.
As time passes, a remarkable transformation occurs, not so much in the other person, but within us. The individual who once seemed intolerable now appears in a different light—less offensive, perhaps even pleasant or admirable. This shift is a clear indication of our own growth and development. We come to realize that the tolerance we sought from others has blossomed within us; the capacity to love, once thought impossible, is now a part of who we are.
This realization brings us to a critical understanding: in the process of recovery, the person who truly gets better is ourselves. Through consistent application of the program’s principles, we not only improve our lives but also our attitudes towards those around us. This shift in perspective is not trivial; it signifies a profound change in how we relate to the world and the people in it.
The journey of recovery teaches us that tolerance and love are not merely virtues to aspire to but essential practices for our well-being and growth. As we continue to work the Steps and apply the principles of the program, our capacity for tolerance and love expands, improving not only our relationships but also our overall quality of life.
Let us remember that the measure of our recovery is not just in the changes we see in ourselves but also in the changes in how we see others. As we get better, our perception of those around us improves, reflecting the internal work we have done. Just for today, let us commit to practicing tolerance and love, recognizing that in doing so, we are not only helping ourselves but also contributing to the betterment of our community.