MY PERSONAL JOURNEY WITH SPIRITUALITY

When I came into recovery this year, I knew I had to do things differently.  I did have a long period of sobriety years ago, but the concept of spirituality seemed to escape me and I knew that I had to come to terms with the idea of a “Higher Power” or I would be back in relapse mode.

While I was in treatment I worked hard to grasp a sense of comfort and relief that would come from understanding that I was not in control – my Higher Power was.  Then I had a very strange experience.  One evening, I wanted to use my free time from the treatment centre to go out, but I could not decide what to do – I contemplated shopping, treating myself to something to eat – I just could not make up my mind.  But a voice in my head kept telling me to push all that aside and go to an AA meeting.  This time, I listened to my little voice, and went to a wonderful meeting.  Coincidently, the topic was Step 1, and I knew then I had taken the right action.  I also knew that the little voice was my Higher Power helping me.

My life after that seemed to slowly transform – I was more serene than I had ever been and I was optimistic about the future.

Spirituality can mean different things to different people.  I believe that it comes from within, and is shown in my actions and behaviours.  Yes, learning to believe in a power greater than myself is part of my spiritual journey but I have also learned that I have to demonstrate spirituality in all parts of my life in order for me to have contentment, happiness, serenity and stay sober