When we’re doing the work to recover, we can be deeply afraid of sharing our stories for fear of being judged or rejected.
We have been met with so much criticism and judgment in the past, it can take us some time to get used to the idea of being received with openheartedness and understanding. Many of us share a fear of speaking in public, and that fear can be compounded exponentially when it comes to sharing personal information. How do we get to the point where we want to share ourselves and our stories with other people, both for their sake and for ours?
If we think of sharing not as a burdensome obligation but as a gift to the people with whom we’re sharing, we can be motivated by our desire to help other people.
Addiction is an illness that isolates us and makes us feel alone and misunderstood. The more we can share with each other, the more guidance and inspiration we can provide for one another. When we hear another person’s story that touches us in a meaningful way, it often comes right when we need it, when we’re in a dark place and suffering. We need other people when we’re in this place. We need other people to help us feel less isolated and alone. It can help to be inspired and motivated by other people’s experiences. When we recognize how much support we’ve gain from others’ stories of victory over addiction, we come to recognize our own ability to provide the same support for newcomers in return. They can be uplifted and encouraged to continue their own work towards healing through our willingness to be open. This vital perspective can pull us to deeper spiritual and emotional connection.
As people who have experienced freedom and abundance, we are uniquely qualified to share that same experience, knowledge, strength, and hope with others.
Oftentimes, a sponsor or a therapist will be one of the first people we bear our souls too. It is the hope that these spiritual and therapeutic teachers will pave the way for us to be honest and open with others in need. As we recover, we learn how to create safe, judgement-free relationships where newcomers can discuss their problems without reservation. Through this experience, we discover that our own past can be “the key to life and happiness for others.” We see how much we can be of service to other people who could benefit from hearing our stories and learning how we recovered ourselves.
Origins Behavioral Healthcare is a well-known care provider offering a range of treatment programs targeting the recovery from substance use disorders, mental health issues, and beyond. Our primary mission is to provide a clear path to a life of healing and restoration. We offer renowned clinical care for addiction and have the compassion and professional expertise to guide you toward lasting sobriety.
For information on our programs,
call us today: 561-841-1296