I’d like to add a couple thoughts about the familiar problems of the addict who cries, usually just as he or she leaves rehab, “This time I’m really gonna’ try.”

It seems sometimes relapses are encouraged by merely “trying” to work the program. Oh, I suspect there will be the normal period of involvement with the Program. But not too long after release from rehab, the good news is followed by bad news — our lives seem to become out of control for our life returns to “same old, same old.”

Why does this seem to occur more often than we’d like? “Why did it happen to me? Is it really necessary?”

No, it’s not “necessary” to the Program; it just sometimes seems that way. When we really “do” the deal, it becomes our life changing decision. We need to sign-on each day.  It’s not the old shilly-shallying around when we merely “tried.”

Maybe, I have to post a sign I will see every day,

“This day, I mean it, and “Yes, Sir,” I know I have to re-up. Yes, I’m going to a meeting today, and maybe 2 or 3, as needed. I'll stick with my sponsor will not let me lie, alibi or “forget” to do it. I will study hard – not merely read - but study hard - the Big Book, the 12/12 and all the other literature. I will not let an issue or problem eat-me-up but will talk to my sponsor about it and maybe raise it as a discussion topic at a meeting. I will search for a spirit-filled life and I will carry this message to the still suffering addict.”

With “doing” the Program, in turning it over to our Higher Power, I find a joy and comfort — “we will know peace.” Happy serene days have come.

Jim     St X Noon