“We don’t have to be clean when we get here but, after the first meeting, we suggest that newcomers keep coming back and come back clean. We don’t have to wait for an overdose or a jail sentence to get help from Narcotics Anonymous.”
Basic Text, page 10
When we first arrive at Narcotics Anonymous (NA), many of us are not overflowing with willingness. Our initial steps into the room might be reluctant or even forced. Whether we’re there because of a court order, to save our family relationships, or to salvage a crumbling career, the reasons for attending NA do not matter as much as the fact that we are present. The journey begins the moment we step through those doors.
We’ve often heard the saying, “If we bring the body, the mind will follow.” Initially, we might attend meetings with skepticism, sitting in the back with our arms crossed, glaring at anyone who dares to approach. Some of us might even leave before the final prayer, unwilling to engage fully. Despite this resistance, the simple act of showing up starts a transformation. Over time, we find ourselves beginning to listen, perhaps grudgingly at first, but listen we do. This is the beginning of opening our minds.
As we continue to attend meetings, something profound happens. Beyond just our bodies and minds, our hearts start to arrive in the meeting rooms. This shift marks the beginning of true change. We lower our defenses and begin to genuinely hear the experiences and wisdom shared by others. This connection fosters a sense of community and belonging, essential components in the recovery process.
The journey of recovery is rarely a straight path. However, by consistently returning to NA meetings, we experience a gradual but powerful transformation. The process of change becomes evident not only in our thoughts but also in our emotions and actions. We find ourselves relating to others, understanding their struggles and victories, and seeing parallels in our own lives. This sense of relatability helps dismantle the isolation we often feel, replacing it with hope and connection.
NA teaches us that showing up is the first and most crucial step. Once we commit to this practice, even with reluctance, the path to recovery begins to unfold. The initial resistance fades, replaced by an eagerness to learn and grow. Our willingness to keep coming back, despite our initial reservations, is what ultimately leads to profound personal change.
Today’s reading emphasizes the importance of listening with an open mind. This practice is not just about hearing words but about absorbing the wisdom and experiences shared by fellow members. It’s about finding those moments of connection that spark change within us. By listening openly, we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and receptive to new ways of thinking and living.
The journey to recovery is a series of steps, and the commitment to return to NA meetings is a crucial one. Each time we show up, we reinforce our dedication to change and growth. The miracles of recovery begin when we allow ourselves to be present, open-minded, and willing to listen. As we continue to engage with the NA community, we discover that recovery is not just about staying clean—it’s about embracing a new way of life filled with hope, connection, and endless possibilities.
Just for today, strive to listen with an open mind to what you hear shared. This practice can be the key to unlocking profound change and embracing the miracles that come with recovery.