For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭15

With a little bit of sobriety under my belt, I feel like a new man. I am, in some respects.

It seems as though every possibility in front of me is outstretched, welcoming and good. I want to do it all. I want to live.

This is a wonderful time in our recovery, and the encouragement it gives to our soul is unparalleled. But there is reason to be cautious as well.

The compulsion to drink is replaced with a compulsion to evangelize. The compulsion to lie is replaced with a compulsion to over-share. The compulsion to withdraw is replaced with a compulsion to live in meetings.

I had to be taught the rhythm of sobriety. It would be no good if I replaced one set of bad habits with another slightly better set of annoying ones.

Instead of judging others and cramming instructions down their throats, I learned to share my experience when appropriate and make suggestions when they were requested.

Instead of sharing incessantly, I learned how to actively listen and helpfully contribute.

Instead of holding up in recovery groups, I integrated back into the stream of life.

The tendency to want to be unique is still a theme for most of us. But as I continue to learn to point toward God and give credit where it’s due, I grow out of this terminal uniqueness a little bit each day.

I believe it’s a work in progress. I believe it’s a human condition that is heightened in addicts. I believe the best remedy is proper alignment with his will for me.

God, help what I do point toward you.