Monday Thoughts 7.29.24

“Once she stopped rushing through life, she was amazed at how much more life she had time for.”

Unknown

“When you decide to go somewhere, be prepared to encounter life, be ready to experience the unexpected, and be open to embracing the new possibilities. Life is truly amazing if you have not defined it yet.”

Sangeeta Rana

“Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.”

Søren Kierkegaard

#6 Life can be ordinary or it can be great.

Greatness is mine by a conscious effort.

As our fabulous Monday Thoughts co-author Dee is practicing self-care and recovering from a recent surgery, we can take this moment to examine investment in our New Lives. Leaving substances behind, we already know sobriety and recovery are all about living. Life is a verb; it shows action, occurrence (develop), or state of being (exist) according to Merriam-Webster. 

Have you ever noticed how many times the word “life” appears in the WFS Statements? Ten times! Ten times our founder, Jean Kirkpatrick, PhD chose to use the word LIFE in our Statements. Jean learned and understood that with connection; recovery is life in action. It is through the practice of Statement #6 that we connect and build meaningful presence. 

An exhilarating moment in my New Life was becoming aware of being bonded to the present for the first time. It was a distinct and unique experience from what I had been accustomed to. It felt as if everything was wondrously alive—my skin tingled, waves of wind washed across my face, blowing my hair everywhere, and the scents…I was keenly aware of the delicate shift of aromas all around. Years later this particular moment still holds meaning, even though there was nothing remarkable about it. There was no special occasion, no holiday, or celebration. It was a simple, grand moment of Statement #6 brought to life.

Have you ever been so deeply involved in an activity only to realize later that an extended amount of time has elapsed? In recovery, we can set the stage for those kinds of moments to develop. One of my favorite ways to engage with the present is to first focus on breathing. Breath work requires no unique skills, tools, or even an internet connection. It is always with you and ready to use. Breath work can slow the mind down enough to move through anxiety or upsetting emotions as well. Nature is a wonderful outlet for presence too. Grounding techniques are also an excellent way to bring ourselves back to the present while anchoring us. The 5.4.3.2.1 technique works well. Pause and take a moment to name: five things you can see around you, four things you can touch or feel, three distinct sounds you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. 

This week, embrace presence. Describe being lost in the moment. What did it feel like? How long ago was it? What do you do to feel connected to the present? Are you open to discovering new pathways to the present? 

Hugzzz
Karen

Dear WFS community,

We are thrilled to announce that Kendra Scott, based in Texas, has graciously supported Women for Sobriety and honored our sister Marissa, former Mrs. Corpus Christi. Kendra Scott’s motto “Shine Bright, Do Good” resonates with our mission of empowering women in recovery and extending a hand to those in need of support.

We are so grateful for Kendra Scott’s partnership and willingness to help us raise money to support more women on their path to recovery. Their generosity will allow us to reach even more women in need and continue our efforts to empower and uplift those in recovery.

Thank you, Marissa, for your unwavering support and for using your voice to uplift and empower women in recovery. Your dedication to our cause is truly commendable, and we are so grateful to have you as a part of our community.

Thank you, Kendra Scott, for your support and dedication to empowering women in recovery. We are so grateful for your partnership and look forward to making a difference together.

If you know of a company that would be interested in supporting WFS and partnering with us, please let us know. Together, we can do so much more to support women in their journey to recovery.

With gratitude and appreciation,
Michelle Shaivitz Ed.D.
Executive Director