Think Recovery. . .and you will recover

Dr. Robert Holden of the Happiness Project says that we were all created “happy” and to experience real happiness we need only learn to “follow our joy”. “Don’t waste time, he says, looking for a job, but look for a purpose instead”. The difference is enormous and your happiness, as well as your recovery, depends on your understanding of this simple principle.

Additionally, successful individuals report that recovery is dependent upon taking an active role in the world, engaging in meaningful life activities, and building healthy relationships with others. Take a look at the following video clip and decide for yourself and “May the force be with you” . . . well actually, it always has been . . .



Life's pressures can drive a wedge into the relationships we treasure most. It's important to be intentional about building love into the relationships we value and care about. In order to keep the relationships you treasure at their BEST, remember these four steps.
Bless those you care about by speaking life words into their character. Pay attention and point out the character qualities that bless others. Use them to speak back blessing. By focusing on building words you will find the "warmth" factor in your relationship will grow as well. When there are things that need addressing, ask God to guide you in speaking words that will not destroy.

Encourage those you care about in their daily circumstances. Listen well to the things they have to say. Communication dries up when we don't really pay attention to what the other person is saying. We each get lost in our own cares. Listen for the feelings behind the words and seek to bring hope. Let your support be known even when the solutions are not.

Share thoughts, ideas, time and experiences. When we become too busy to share ourselves with those we love, erosion and indifference can slip in. Be intentional about sharing life together. Take time to talk and share ideas or concerns. Time to spend together and dreaming together won't be there unless you make it. Let those you care about know this is important to you and prioritize it.

Touch those you care about in appropriate and loving ways. Touch is one of our most basic needs. Taking someone’s hand, giving them a hug, putting your hand on their arm or back can do much to convey care, warmth, and the encouragement they may need in their recovery. See the Healing Power of Touch video from video archive, you can find it in the sidebar.