I've got a gift for you
+ why recovery matters
Do you ever wonder what happens in the “downstairs spaces” of the recovery community? [when I say downstairs I mean hidden, secretive, set apart]
My first book, Downstairs Church: Finding Hope in the Grit of Addiction and Trauma Recovery digs into this very topic to shine a light on what happens in the recovery community. This book is part recovery manifesto, part call to action for all communities to get involved in supporting recovery.
The concept of the downstairs church references where many people think recovery has to happen: in circles of chairs in secretive church basements.
I don’t think this is the case.
We don’t have to be hidden or secretive. We don’t have to carry the heavy weight of shame.
Our circles of chairs can be open spaces, broad pathways, or narrow roads. Our recovery journeys can include the traditional 12 steps, and it can also include peer support funded through state health departments or ministries. It might even happen in the upstairs church.
Healing is not a mystery and it is not reserved for those who follow a particular recovery pathway like AA or NA (though these pathways I respect and know that they help countless folks).
I believe that we can choose to heal and our healing might look different depending on where we are in our journey.
In the spirit of revealing what happens in recovery and what can happen in our own hearts when we dig deep, for the rest of the month of April, I’m offering a free copy of this guided journal in partnership with the Center of Addiction and Faith.
Join me over the next 7 days as we explore what it means to connect to a recovery community and heal. Together, let's discover how we can find hope in the grit of our experiences and maybe a little faith along the way.
Forward this email to a friend and let's get started!
Text JOURNAL to 988-920-9446 today to get your free copy. Offer ends soon!
Recovery matters because you matter.
I’m so grateful you are here. Check out my last #recoverytiptuesday for a practical tip for your recovery and comment below or send me an email with a recovery tip, tool, or strategy that helps you maintain wellness. I’ll feature your comments next Tuesday!
