progressive wellness

the important elements of progressive wellness;

outlook
attitude
gratitude
perception
vigilance
responsibility
accountability
veracity
mobility
humility

can someone stay away from a drink or drug
without utilizing these elements? yes.

i see folks 10, 15 or 20 years away from their last use;
yet remain irresponsible, dishonest, angry or envious.

are they sober? technically yes.

if they attend meetings, these people are spared
the "dry drunk" label

have they made the behavior changes necessary to
complement their abstinence? certainly not.

the above list contains what it takes to separate
the "slogan-slingers", from those who actually
strive to improve their lives by action, rather
than simply quoting big book phrases.

in time i have developed a keen "bullshit-meter",
with which i can identify someone who is genuinely
recovering, and not merely reciting.

sure, this method can be labeled, "taking someone's inventory";
but i learned from a wise man in the rooms; that's what i'm
supposed to do!
how can i strive to learn something, from someone with nothing.
he encouraged me to observe what folks did, and not just
what they said.

anyone who maintains the traits listed is living a truly recovered life.