We recently published a piece of writing by Donna Newman which details what recovery is and the actions and behaviours that may be employed by someone early in recovery.
As a recovery journey progresses, over time a new perspective on life develops as the individual applies the 12 Steps and recovery tools to their daily lives. ‘After a While’ by Veronica A. Shoffstall (below), although relevant to many people outside of recovery, accurately describes the many things learnt at this stage. It’s a powerful piece of writing that can help us to endure life’s challenges and find peace.
After a While
After a while you learn
the subtle difference between holding a hand and chaining a soul
and you learn
that love doesn’t mean leaning
and company doesn’t always mean security.
And you begin to learn
that kisses aren’t contracts and presents aren’t promises
and you begin to accept your defeats with your head up and your eyes ahead
with the grace of a woman, not the grief of a child
and you learn
to build all your roads on today because tomorrow’s ground is
too uncertain for plans
and futures have a way of falling down in mid-flight.
After a while you learn
that even sunshine burns if you get too much
so you plant your own garden and decorate your own soul
instead of waiting for someone to bring you flowers.
And you learn that you really can endure
you really are strong
you really do have worth
and you learn
and you learn
with every goodbye, you learn…
