From time to time, we hear central divisions say that they have not really understood the spiritual principles yet. We are told that if we could hear what their heads are saying, we would be stunned by the madness they still carry. They tell us that the longer they go into recovery, the less they know. And right after, the same man tells us about the very big changes that recovery has brought to his life. He has gone from utter despair to a hope that does not betray him, from uncontrolled use to complete abstinence, and from permanent lack of control he has taken charge of his life by working the Twelve Steps of Narcotics Anonymous. What really matters? Are we recovering or not?
Perhaps we think we look grateful or humble when we skillfully play the part of the man whose life has been completely changed. The truth is that we do the program an injustice when we take credit for the miracle that has happened in our lives. However, we are equally unfair to ourselves and those who listen to us when we do not recognize how great this miracle is.
We are indeed recovering. If we find it difficult to see the miracle of recovery, let us finally open our eyes. Recovery is real and possible in Narcotics Anonymous: we see it in the old members, in the newcomers who fill the rooms, and most of all, in ourselves. All we need to do is open our eyes.
