Many people entering into recovery are conflicted by the prospect of giving up drugs and alcohol forever. They may recognize that they need help and be entirely willing to stop for some time, but the thought of never using drugs or drinking again can be a frightening prospect. We are taking on the lifelong journey of recovery when we decide to get sober. However, we choose not to think of our sobriety in the long-term. Newcomers to recovery may have heard the phrase, “one day at a time.” Taking our sobriety one day at a time is a great way to ensure that we do not become overwhelmed by the prospect of a lifetime of sobriety. Rather than think about whether we will be sober in the next year, month, or week, we choose to focus on the day at hand. We begin each day with a period of prayer and meditation to reaffirm our commitment to sobriety and connection with a Higher Power of our own understanding. The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous explains, “On awakening let us think about the twenty-four hours ahead. We consider our plans for the day. Before we begin, we ask God to direct our thinking, especially asking that it be divorced from self-pity, dishonest or self-seeking motives. This practice is known as the “daily reprieve.” The Big Book explains, “It is easy to let up on the spiritual program of action and rest on our laurels. We are headed for trouble if we do, for alcohol is a subtle foe. We are not cured of alcoholism. What we really have is a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition.” A reprieve is defined as a cancellation or postponement of punishment, especially in regards to someone who has been condemned to death. The phrase is fitting, as we know that continuing to drink or use drugs will inevitably lead to one of three outcomes: jails, institutions, or death. Therefore, each day is a day when we must do everything in our power to maintain our sobriety for the following twenty-four hours. Even men and women with decades sober will be the first to say, “All I have is today.”
Your story doesn’t have to be one of sadness and suffering. You can make the decision to seek help now and embark upon the rewarding journey of recovery. Oceanfront Recovery, a treatment facility in the heart of beautiful Laguna Beach, offers a highly effective residential treatment program that incorporates a variety of treatment methodologies and a well-rounded balance of individual and group therapy sessions, inside and outside 12-step meetings, nutritious meals, social events, monitored exercise, as well as sufficient time for rest, relaxation and reflection. For information about residential treatment and other individualized treatment options, please call today: (877) 279-1777
