Early recovery can be a difficult time for many individuals. Whether it is the rollercoaster of emotions to PAWS (Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome) this period can challenge even the most steadfast recovering person.

For many an addict, abstinence from mind and mood altering chemicals is a significant achievement.  Addiction has a way of tearing apart a person in ways that are incredibly damaging.  In addition, there is typically a great deal of fall out that results from a person’s self-destructive behavior.

When it comes to addiction recovery during the holiday season it is important to keep first things first. In other words, your recovery should be your number one priority.  For those who have been fortunate enough to put “a few 24 hours” together, it is vital that they do not forget the basic things that helped them to get to where they are today.

There are many consequences to keep into mind when it comes to making the decision to stop using drugs and alcohol..  What I mean is that while abstaining from substances is a tremendously courageous thing to do, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind.

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday here in the States I have to pause and take a few moments to share some of the things I have to be grateful for. There was a time in my life when this holiday was especially chaotic and downright insane. After entering recovery I have come to appreciate all that I have and how truly blessed I am.

I have a good friend who has an expression that describes someone who you can truly trust.  He says that if we were to jump out of an airplane would we trust that person to “pull the rip cord.”  This is an interesting thought to ponder.

Yesterday I was thinking about the nature of addiction on a road trip I was on. The drive served to provide me with a few thoughts I’d like to share.

In recovery there are two different camps, so to speak. There are those individuals who say that they are recovering addicts, while others say they are recovered addicts.  At first glance you might think there is no difference but I disagree.

No one ever says, "When I grow up I want to be a drug addict." As for myself, I recall my mother using that term and I had not a clue as to what she was talking about. I could not conceive of the idea that a person could not control his behavior. Becoming an addict was the furthest thing from my mind.

There is a common belief in many cultures that human beings have been given free will in determining their lives.  On one hand, being able to make our own decisions and choose our own fate is what has allowed our world to become what it is, for better or for worse.  On the other hand, free will is like the proverbial double-edged sword.  Sometimes, too much freedom may not be such a good thing.