Just for Today – December 7 – Surviving Our Emotions

“We use the tools available to us and develop the ability to survive our emotions.”
– Basic Text, page 30

For many of us in active addiction, emotions felt unbearable. Fear, anger, sadness, and even joy were so intense that we believed the only way to cope was to numb ourselves with drugs. This temporary “fix” left us unable to mature emotionally, further isolating us from ourselves and others. In recovery, we learn that not only can we survive our emotions, but we can also grow through them, using the tools of the NA program.

Emotional Avoidance in Addiction

When we were using, our feelings seemed overwhelming:

• Fear: Of failure, rejection, or the unknown.
• Anger: At others, ourselves, or the world.
• Sadness: From loss, disappointment, or unmet expectations.

Rather than face these emotions, we turned to substances to escape. The result was a vicious cycle—our emotional avoidance stunted our growth, deepened our pain, and drove us further into addiction.

Finding Relief in Recovery

Recovery offers a new way to cope with our emotions. From the moment we admit powerlessness in the First Step, we begin to experience a sense of relief. No longer do we have to pretend to be in control or numb ourselves to survive.

How Recovery Helps:

1. Honesty: Sharing openly in meetings and with sponsors helps us process feelings.
2. Inventory: Steps Four and Ten guide us to acknowledge and take responsibility for our part in situations.
3. Amends: Step Nine helps us release guilt and shame, freeing us from emotional burdens.

The tools of recovery empower us to confront emotions instead of running from them, fostering emotional resilience and maturity.

Living with Emotional Honesty

Facing emotions head-on can be challenging, but it’s essential for lasting recovery.

• Acknowledge Feelings: Denying or suppressing emotions only amplifies their impact.
• Surrender to Reality: Accepting life as it is, rather than how we wish it to be, helps us move forward.
• Ask for Help: Turning to a sponsor or support network provides perspective and reassurance.

Emotional honesty doesn’t mean being controlled by our feelings; it means acknowledging them, understanding their source, and taking appropriate action.

Tools to Survive Emotions

The NA program offers practical tools for navigating our emotions:

• Daily Inventory: Reviewing our day helps us identify unresolved feelings and patterns.
• Step Work: The steps guide us to address emotions constructively, transforming them into opportunities for growth.
• Meditation and Prayer: Quiet reflection and connection with a Higher Power bring peace and clarity.
• Fellowship Support: Sharing with others reminds us that we’re not alone in our struggles.

By using these tools consistently, we develop the confidence to handle whatever emotions life brings our way.

Growth Through Emotional Resilience

As we practice living honestly and confronting our feelings, we discover that emotions are not as terrifying as we once believed. Each time we face a challenging situation, we grow stronger and more resilient. Recovery doesn’t mean we avoid pain or discomfort; it means we learn to navigate these experiences with grace and integrity.