At a midweek QuittersWin meeting I was stricken by the beauty in the struggle of brave souls on the journey to beat an addiction. Yes, their struggle – which some days can leave them (temporarily) defeated, allows me to see their courage and strength in inspiring ways.
There were some tears among the candid conversations, There were tales of unreasonable burdens and struggles. Were we alone on this journey, I dare say that some of us would surrender and accept defeat. The courage and candor are always met with compassion and care in this community. All of us understand – in our own ways – just how complicated this journey can be.
But with every tale of pain, suffering, loss, and relapse, despite all of the overwhelming circumstances these folks are facing outside of their recovery journey, I saw something spread throughout the room that filled me with awe and hope. Every vulnerable story shared was met with genuine care and connection. The power of authentic connection in the room overcame and weariness or woundedness of these brave souls.
This page is filled with images blooms from my yard and pond. I am so often stopped in my tracks by the beauty of nature around me. Time spent in nature is good medicine. But in group the other day, I encountered another beauty that can’t be captured in an image. And I struggle to find sufficient words to describe it. But beauty will need to do.
For the rare brave pilgrims on the often unpredictable path to recovery, I truly hope you know how beautiful you are – and how inspiring. Your grace with one another and kindness shown to one another is truly inspiring. Please, please, please be certain to hold yourselves with all of the compassion you show to others. You are each worthy of connection and belonging. You each deserve to be seen and heard as your authentic selves. Thank you for bringing your beautiful powerful selves to a community where others can find strength and connection.
