Just for Today – December 5 – Those Who Want to Recover

“We have seen the program work for any addict who honestly and sincerely wants to stop using drugs.”
– Basic Text, page 10

Recovery works for those who are ready to embrace it, but recognizing that readiness in others isn’t always straightforward. As members of Narcotics Anonymous, our role isn’t to judge someone’s willingness but to carry the message of recovery with an open heart. Whether or not a newcomer stays clean isn’t for us to determine—it’s a journey between them and their Higher Power.

The Challenge of Recognizing Willingness

It can be tempting to gauge a newcomer’s chances of success based on their behavior, words, or apparent attitude. We may think someone who attends sporadically or shares reluctantly isn’t ready for recovery. Yet, recovery surprises us time and again.

• Unexpected Success: A person who seemed disinterested at their first meeting may later become an active member of the fellowship.
• Relapses: Someone who struggles with relapses may eventually find lasting recovery.

Our assumptions about another’s willingness often prove unreliable. The fact that an addict is at a meeting, regardless of their demeanor, suggests a spark of hope.

Our Role in Carrying the Message

Our responsibility is simple: to share the message of recovery freely and without judgment.

• Carry Hope: By sharing our own experiences, we demonstrate that recovery is possible.
• Offer Support: We provide a safe and welcoming space where newcomers can begin their journey.
• Trust the Process: We leave the results to a Higher Power, understanding that recovery unfolds in its own time.

Why This Matters:

1. We Can’t Predict Outcomes: Recovery isn’t linear, and willingness can grow over time.
2. It’s About Service: Our job is to give, not to control or expect specific results.
3. Everyone Deserves a Chance: Every addict has the potential to recover, no matter how hopeless they may seem.

Letting Go of Control

When we focus on outcomes, we risk frustration or discouragement. By trusting our Higher Power to guide each person’s recovery, we free ourselves from the burden of judgment or expectation.

Steps to Let Go:

1. Share Openly: Offer your experience, strength, and hope without reservation.
2. Release Expectations: Remember, you’re not responsible for someone else’s recovery.
3. Practice Compassion: Treat every addict with kindness, regardless of their progress.

The Power of the Message

The NA message is simple: Any addict can stop using, lose the desire to use, and find a new way of life. By carrying this message, we plant seeds of hope that may grow in ways we cannot foresee. Even if a newcomer doesn’t stay clean immediately, your words or example may inspire them to return when they’re ready.

Trusting in a Higher Power

Ultimately, it’s not up to us to decide who recovers or when. Our Higher Power works in ways we may not understand, guiding each person’s journey. By sharing the message freely and without judgment, we fulfill our Twelfth Step and honor the principles of the program.