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Remember Mindfulness – close eyes briefly

Understanding the obsession of addiction

JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings has been cited by some as a metaphor for addiction. The Ring works its magic on all who seek it, rendering some hopelessly obsessed. The effect it has in particular on its custodian Gollum’s personality and physique are reminiscent of drugs such as heroin. Gollum is entirely consumed by his attachment to the Ring. Nothing else is as important and his mental and moral standards deteriorate markedly. Interestingly, the power of the Ring to corrupt the likes of Gollum was not equal to ensnaring the ‘good’ characters of Gandalf and Frodo. They seem to have won through largely because of the support, strength, and unity they found in each other’s company – a bit like AA. There is no evidence that Tolkien had drugs in mind. Am I ready to learn lessons of recovery from many sources?

I must never forget the corrupting power of alcohol and drugs. A glass of beer or a puff of weed can seem such a minor event but their potential for mayhem is immense. Regular drug use can impair a person’s ability to choose right from wrong. Empathy and the understanding of other people’s emotions are also found at reduced levels in drug users. I will remember that a small drink of alcohol does no harm to some people, but it contains the potential to change me from Gandalf into Gollum.

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Remember Mindfulness – sit comfortably

Step Four

When we consider integrity, we think of being true to ourselves, but what does this really mean? We expect to act in accordance with our beliefs, values, and principles but sometimes our thinking gets in the way, so that we act ‘out of character’, perhaps because we want to influence somebody, perhaps out of fear or just sheer confusion. Sometimes, people who have just sobered up have been so damaged by their addiction that they don’t know themselves at all and need to explore their personality. That, of course, is where Step Four is useful. For many in recovery, the chances of being true to themselves are slim until they tackle this Step. Am I ready to do a searching and fearless personal inventory?

If I have integrity, it will be recognised by others. Many people pretend to be what they are not, but they can be easy to see because they are often not consistent, believable or calm. Integrity gives us a quiet confidence and authority that comes with peace of mind. With integrity, we will be at ease with our Higher Power, secure in the knowledge that we have been managing our affairs in the right manner. Today I will seek to act according to my beliefs and values in all my affairs.