Menu
The journey from active addiction to recovery is marked by profound changes in how we perceive time and ourselves. One of the most significant shifts is moving away from the paralyzing grip of “what if…” scenarios that used to dominate our thoughts. The Narcotics Anonymous Basic Text reminds us of the freedom found in living just for today, a principle that liberates us from the burdens of the past and the anxieties of the future.
In the throes of addiction, many of us were haunted by endless fears about the future. The “what if” questions loomed large, painting dire scenarios that spiraled into further anxiety and despair. This habit of anticipating the worst, of trying to navigate life based on countless imagined outcomes, only served to entangle us in a web of fear and disappointment.
Recovery introduces us to a new way of living, one anchored in the present moment. It teaches us the value of focusing on what is tangible and real, rather than getting lost in the maze of hypotheticals. By living in the now, we learn to take necessary actions and trust in a Higher Power to handle the outcomes. This approach doesn’t just alleviate fear; it cultivates a sense of peace and trust in the process of life.
Central to this new way of living is the development of faith in a Higher Power, a faith that reassures us that we are cared for and that we won’t be given more than we can handle in a single day. Through consistent practice of this faith, especially in challenging times, we gradually shed our fear of the unknown. Each instance of reliance on a Power greater than ourselves reinforces our confidence and diminishes our preoccupation with “what if” scenarios.
As we grow in our recovery, the imagined catastrophes of the future lose their power over us. We become more adept at dealing with life as it unfolds, trusting in the care of our Higher Power and in our ability to navigate the day’s challenges. This doesn’t mean we ignore potential problems or avoid planning for the future; rather, it means we approach such tasks without fear, knowing that we are equipped to handle what comes.
Let us move forward with the understanding that living for today is a profound act of faith and courage. It means trusting in a power greater than ourselves to guide us through whatever the day may bring. Just for today, let us embrace the present, free from the burden of “what if” and open to the possibilities of “what is,” with faith in our Higher Power to light the path ahead.