“Social acceptability does not equal recovery.”
—Basic Text, page 21
One of the first things many of us notice in recovery is our appearance improving. We become healthier, maintain better hygiene, and dress more appropriately. Without the compulsion of active addiction, many of us stop engaging in destructive behaviors like stealing, lying, and hustling. By simply removing the drugs, we start to look normal.
However, looking normal is very different from being normal. Acceptability in the eyes of the world is a benefit of recovery, but it is not the same thing as recovery. We may enjoy the external benefits of recovery, but we must take care to nurture their true source.
Lasting recovery is not found in acceptance from others but in the inner growth set in motion by the Twelve Steps. The external changes are often the first to be noticed, but they are just a reflection of the deeper, internal transformation. Recovery is about more than just appearances; it’s about a profound change in how we think, feel, and behave.
The Twelve Steps guide us on a journey of self-discovery and inner healing. This process helps us develop honesty, humility, and a sense of responsibility. As we work through the steps, we learn to face our fears, make amends for our wrongdoings, and develop a spiritual foundation. This inner growth is the true essence of recovery.
It’s important to remember that social acceptability is not the end goal. While it’s gratifying to gain the approval of others and to be seen as a responsible member of society, the real work happens within. Recovery is an inside job, requiring continuous effort and dedication to personal growth and spiritual development.
Just for today: I know that looking good isn’t enough. Lasting recovery is an inside job.