Menu
“On a practical level, changes occur because what’s appropriate to one phase of recovery may not be for another.” This insight, taken from the Basic Text page 101, underscores a fundamental aspect of recovery in Narcotics Anonymous (NA): the evolution of honesty. The journey from addiction to recovery isn’t just about ceasing substance use; it’s about an internal transformation that reshapes how we interact with the world around us.
Upon entering NA, many of us were far from what society would consider being “honest and productive model citizens.” Our past actions and decisions, often driven by our addiction, were not always aligned with principles of honesty and integrity. However, as we embark on the path of recovery, we find our old ways of living and thinking increasingly uncomfortable.
Recovery fosters a profound shift in our values and behavior. Acts that once seemed trivial, such as returning extra change given by mistake or owning up to minor accidents, become significant markers of our growing honesty. These small acts of integrity lay the foundation for facing more significant moral challenges with courage and honesty.
For many of us, honesty was a foreign concept in the throes of addiction. The process of working the Twelve Steps, however, catalyzes a remarkable transformation. We no longer find satisfaction in gains made at others’ expense. The discomfort with dishonesty grows, steering us towards a life where honesty is not just practiced but is a source of pride and self-respect.
This newfound honesty does more than just alter how we view ourselves; it transforms how we are perceived by others. It rebuilds trust, mends broken relationships, and opens the door to genuine connections built on transparency and sincerity. The act of growing honestly in recovery sends ripples through all aspects of our lives, enhancing our interactions with others and deepening our sense of personal integrity.
Let’s take a moment today to reflect on our journey towards honesty. Assess how far we’ve come and recognize the areas where we can continue to grow. The path of recovery offers endless opportunities for self-improvement, with honesty being a cornerstone of the transformative process. Today, let us commit to embodying this principle more fully, appreciating the peace and self-respect that comes from living truthfully.