But in all honesty, addiction is a very hard battle. Drugs, alcohol, pornography, gambling, video games, working, exercising (although I don't have a major problem with that! ;), watching TV, shopping, etc. It is a very real and unsettling thing. It can disrupt and ruin lives; your life, their life, your childrens' lives.
A few weeks ago, we had a lesson in church on addiction. I wasn't able to attend, but I would have liked to. I think that many people associate the word "addiction" with someone that is bad. So, for me to say that I have tendencies toward addiction (spending too much time on the computer, reading until I finish a book and even wanting to sleep more than my body needs) is a big deal.
Now, reader beware. I am not confessing anything major here. But I do wonder how many others "suffer" from this. Are you a closet crafter? Like to do TOO many remodels around the house?
I was reading a bit about the LDS Addiction Recovery Program. There are 12 steps (very similar to the 12 steps of AA) that I thought were very encouraging to read:
Twelve Steps via Ldsar.org
1 Honesty2 Hope
3 Trust in God
4 Truth
5 Confession
6 Change of Heart
7 Humility
8 Seeking Forgiveness
9 Restitution & Reconciliation
10 Daily Accountability
11 Personal Revelation
12 Service
As I took a step back, I realized that this list wasn't just FOR addiction, but for being a good, well-rounded person. Who doesn't want to be honest, humble? Or of service? I think that even if you don't have a problem or even a serious one, this program would be at least a great way to build character.
Maybe along with my New Year's Resolutions, I can start with one step a month. To become a better person and to look more towards my long-term goals...
Thoughts?
No comments:
Post a Comment