Trust is an inherent human entitlement, although navigating it can be challenging. This intricate interplay of trust occurs both internally, within ourselves, and externally, with the world and with those who inhabit it. As I reflect on this, I find myself strongly resonating with the spiritual insights embedded in the principles of 12-step recovery, particularly within Narcotics Anonymous. It's no hidden truth that I've long held the belief that the entirety of humanity could derive value from engaging in a step-oriented introspection, regardless of the presence of an addiction. In the realm of recovery, placing trust in those who have navigated the path before us, such as sponsors and individuals with more accrued clean time, becomes paramount. This translates to a deliberate restraint from acting on initial thoughts or impulse. Or worse sidestepping discomfort altogether casting others as the villains in our narrative while blaming external factors to escape tension. This prevents us from examining our own actions and responsibilities, neglecting the need to address potential issues within our locus of control.
Trust, although a fundamental entitlement, isn't universally bestowed and certainly isn't granted automatically; it necessitates effort on our part. We must scrutinize it, acquaint ourselves with it, engage in conversations with it—reflecting on where its influence has or hasn't permeated. This is one aspect of therapeutic exploration that resonates deeply with me—the ability to engage in a fluid dialogue rather than confronting a cataclysmic crisis or dilemma. It's about nourishing our spirit, enabling us to delve into the concept of unity and confront conflict within the framework of trust. Disagreements are inevitable, yet it's our reluctance to confront them, dissect them, and become acquainted with their nuances that speaks volumes about the lack of trust we might harbor towards those we differ from or have hurt. Instead, we often evade, desensitize, and overlook the discomfort, leading to its manifestation as tension, evasion, and a sense of mistrust.
Trust isn't solely confined to our external interactions; it holds a crucial place within ourselves, right at the core. When self-trust wanes, foundational principles lose their influence. When these pillars erode, and the very cornerstones of our being becomes shaky. Just as in recovery, our journey through life is directed by a collection of spiritual principles—qualities that define our character or shape our beliefs. Yet, it's worth pondering how frequently we truly embody these principles, giving them tangible form? Do we routinely assess our daily interactions, considering how we've implemented or perhaps disregarded these ideals, whether through conscious choices or unintended oversight? Stagnation sets in when growth ceases, leading to restlessness and the weight of burdens, along with feelings of isolation and anxiety.
By empowering ourselves to independently pursue personal growth, aided by therapeutic guidance and work outside of therapy, we seamlessly intertwine connection through unity. The transformative power of unity propels us beyond our imagined limits, unveiling our place within the broader world. All while embracing anonymity within the context of the broader world understanding that our worth is neither superior nor inferior to anyone else's. This vulnerability cultivates the humility to seek assistance when needed and liberate ourselves from the burden of external expectations.
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