"A joyful life is an individual creation that cannot be copied from a recipe."
— Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, American Hungarian Psychologist
Day 269 AF!
This week has been a good one, with no internal challenges to my sobriety. I've been consistent in the areas of healthy routine habits, such as daily planning and journaling, practicing meditation, and working out at the gym for both mental and physical health. I've enjoyed my early morning sessions each day waking up with my first coffee and being creative with editing photographs. Today, I improvised a chicken vegetable rice soup, enjoying the silence in the kitchen, anticipating the delicious result (I'm hoping, anyway).
I've listened to audio streams about recovery and addiction and various science subjects and even found enjoyment in YouTube videos about the history of my favorite video game franchises. I have a couple of books in progress that help me to unwind before sleep. Yes, I give myself permission to escape.
Not everything is peaches and cream. I have loved ones who are experiencing pain through illness and loss. I try to be there for assistance and encouragement. I have continuing concerns about finances and my future, but I am attending to these. I am well aware that if not sober I could not be of service to others or myself.
The above quote resonates with me in that my life is mine to craft, to create, and not to be molded in a form defined by a strict model or recipe. I have experienced various recovery methods and attended group meetings, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Smart Recovery, and Dharma Recovery. I have done much studying in the areas of psychology and addiction to better understand my own drives. What I can say is that no one "canned" program or recipe for recovery was enough for me to stay sober. In no single program did I find the final solution for me. I have found a mix of useful ideas and tools from the different models combined with the most fundamental aspect of my success this time is leading me in a "joyful" recovery. That most fundamental aspect is my intrinsic motivation to live happily and with purpose. I truly want this new sober path I am on!
My way of recovery is working for me. Recovery may be different for everyone in the recovery community and I wish success to all.
If my writings in this photography project can benefit anyone in their recovery, I am proud to be of service!
Staying mindful and strong!
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