Let Support Surround You
Everything we shut our eyes to, everything we run away from, everything we deny, denigrate or despise, serves to defeat us in the end. What seems nasty, painful, evil, can become a source of beauty, joy, and strength, if faced with an open mind. | Henry Miller, author
Much of the time it’s a lot easier to give advice than to receive it. Sometimes we simply don’t want someone to tell us how to do something or when to do it. Other times we find ourselves filled with fear, frustration and anxiety when asked to do something we associate with failure in our past.
Every support group is comprised of many different types of people, each with unique insights, life experiences and stories to share. Some may be early in their recovery, while others are well into their journey. No matter where you fall on the spectrum, you can learn from and grow with your support group by listening to their stories, advice and experiences – and by sharing your own.
Open-mindedness is an important part of recovery as it is something we can practice on a daily basis when we allow our minds and hearts to receive new information, help and guidance from others. Having an open mind and being part of a support group does not mean allowing your choices and beliefs to be determined by others. Open mindedness is a willingness to listen to the people you trust and consider how you can use input from those support groups to supplement, strengthen and celebrate your life and recovery.