A SLIP: Up Front and Personal
If you have kept up with the GRM Blog this summer, you will know that I suffered a foot fracture almost four months ago. Recovery has been going well ... lots of pain, at first, and big-time swelling. Gradually, the tenderness subsided and my sasquatch paw has taken the shape and appearance of its right-side companion.
Walking is comfortable now and every day, I'm feeling stronger and stronger ... so much so that my gait is back to normal and I frequently forget to - purposefully - watch my step. Therein, lies the problem! Sometimes, when things are starting to feel almost normal again, we may be tempted to replace our precautionary, recovery-mindsets with actions/thoughts that could very well be counterproductive to a complete return to health and wholeness.
Take my friend's advice for me to hold onto the stairway railing always. So the slip came. Yes, it was only one step ... but as I clutched the railing, I thought of what could result from such a misstep. Somewhat shaken and safely seated in the family room, I then formulated some essential lessons-learned to put back on my radar screen. They are lessons for me; but perhaps, these barebone basics will provide wisdom and forethought for any of you in the process of recovery (for any reason!).
This is what I am re-learning:
- When I think I'm safe to return to "normal", I need to be cautious of quick, automatic responses (maybe I can ... but maybe not: be deliberate and think!)
- Think about those automatic responses: were they ever safe or wise?
- Are friends/family members repeatedly cautioning me about the same actions? (they actually could have a valid point)
- Were there mini-slips (or maxi-slips) prior to the most recent one? Have I reminded myself previously to watch out about certain actions and/or thoughts?
- After the slip, I have needed to re-plug into my getting well mindset ... and vigilantly keep it plugged in.
- Re-evaluate the situation: author new lessons-learned ... and follow them!
Be patient! The days and weeks will pass soon enough, and as you continue to attend meetings and abstain from gambling, your recovery will really accelerate. Amen!
Blessings,
Rev. Janet Jacobs
Founding Director
Gambling Recovery Ministries
For more information on the Gamblers Anonymous 12 Step Program of Recovery, go to www.gamblersanonymous.org . Also, information on Gam-Anon, for family members, friends, and/or associates of problem gamblers can be found at www.gam-anon.org
For more information on problem gambling and recovery issues, visit www.grmumc.org
