Embracing the Light and Darkness in Recovery🌞🌑
"I will love the light for it shows me the way, yet I will endure the darkness because it shows me the stars." -Og Mandino
Recovery is a journey illuminated by both light and shadow. The light brings clarity, purpose, and direction—a sense of hope guiding us toward a better life. On the flip side, dark moments—cravings, grief, or emotional struggles—are an inevitable part of the process as well. But it’s in these moments that we uncover our resilience, strength, and the unexpected beauty life has to offer.
Finding Meaning in Dark Times
The most difficult times may feel overwhelming, but they also offer profound lessons. Cravings and setbacks challenge us to find new coping tools and uncover the strength we didn’t know we had. Grief and loneliness push us to seek support and grow closer to those who matter most.
If you relapse, it’s a setback but not a failure. We highly discourage relapse, but if it happens and you are still alive, you have another chance to begin recovery. These experiences are not signs of failure—they are opportunities for transformation.
Looking for the Stars
The "stars" in recovery come in many forms: the love and encouragement of family, the personal growth you experience day by day, or the small victories—like choosing to say no to substances. It’s important to pause and recognize these moments of light.
Take time to literally look at the stars. Reflect on how we are made from the same elements that make up those distant lights in the night sky. This shared connection is a reminder of the gift of consciousness—the ability to reflect, grow, and live with intention. Substances, whether drugs or alcohol, only dull this gift, pulling us away from clarity and separating us from our loved ones.
A sober life, on the other hand, reconnects us with our purpose and helps us build deeper connections with the people who matter most.
Thousands of galaxies—some of the most distant objects ever observed—stretching back billions of years in time. -Hubble Ultra-Deep Field (HUDF)
Living Fully and Staying Connected
Recovery isn’t just about avoiding substances—it’s about embracing all of life’s moments, both light and dark, and appreciating the journey for what it is. Every small win is worth celebrating—whether it’s attending a family event sober, calling a friend instead of using, or just making it through a tough day.
Additional Resources:
Trivia Question:
Which scientist, known for his research on consciousness and sensory isolation, also experimented with LSD and ketamine—ultimately leading to his addiction?
How to Participate:
Email your answer to david@asanarecovery.com for a chance to win a $25 gift card! Choose between Uber, DoorDash, or Amazon. 🌟(only correct answers win🙈)
His name was John Lily I believe