Half Measures....

"Half measures availed us nothing..."

These words from the 12-step literature mean exactly what they say. We must make a full, head-on, effort in order to change our lives. If we don't, we risk our sobriety and don't realize the full benefits of living sober.

Many clients at TLC – even some with more than a few years of sobriety – don't get to enjoy living sober because they develop health issues. Some end up having to limit their activities because they don't do things to improve their health.

For example, many smoke, eat junk food, don't exercise, and lead sedentary lives. This kind of lifestyle does nothing to enhance their lives. Some seem to have the attitude that they stopped the pain of their addictions and that's all they need to do.

I recall a woman with several years of sobriety who had health problems because she chain-smoked. She said "Well I'm going to die of something. I might as well die with some flavor on my lips." While this fatalistic attitude might have been her way of denying the seriousness of her bad habits she'll probably never enjoy the full benefits of living sober.

The other aspect of leading an unhealthy life is that it's selfish and self-centered. When our Creator allowed us to get sober we became obligated to give something back to the world. We need to be able to repay the many blessings given to us. We need to be there for our families and friends and healthy enough to care for them.

We can’t help others if we don't first take care of ourselves.