Sobriety Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Updated: Sep 6, 2022
One of the most common character defects we have as alcoholics and addicts is our desire for immediate gratification. We want and demand everything RIGHT NOW! We tend to be very impatient people. We’re always in a hurry to get somewhere, even when we don’t know where we want to go. The only thing we do know is we want it fast and we want it now! Give it to me no, now, now!
Sobriety is a journey, not a destination. It’s important to remember that. In fact, all of life is a journey without any clear destination. All we have is today. We have to train ourselves to be calm and patient and enjoy each moment, even when every fiber in our body is screaming for an instant fix of some kind. Whether its booze, blow, sex, money or fame, we want everything yesterday and tomorrow is too late.
One of the best books I ever read is called the “Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle. I highly recommend it to anyone who is in recovery. It teaches, in a very clear and simple way, that our lives exist in the moment and we must learn to appreciate and enjoy each current experience and not worry about the past or stress over the future.
This concept holds true in every part of your life. It’s important to take your time and remember that nothing good happens in a hurry. Learn to slow things down. Take it easy. The only thing that we can do is try to improve a little each day. Over time, the cumulative effects of our efforts are what make the difference as we move forward.
Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Nor will you rebuild your life in a day. Eat well. Exercise. Meditate. Go to 12 step meetings. Hang out with friends you love and trust. Stay in the moment and let tomorrow arrive on its own without worrying about the results of today’s actions. Take it easy and enjoy the moment,