Transparency is defined as a transparent object, especially a
photographic slide that is viewed by light shining through it from
behind or by projection. When it comes to recovery I believe we need to be open books. What better way to prove your desire to get well. This shows family and friends that you are serious about recovery. The more open you are about what you are doing the better off you are. Our lives should not be lived in secret. Living that kind of life is damaging to you and your family. I know, I have been there. There was a point in my life where I lied about everything. I lied about how much I had to drink, how much money I spent, I lied about paying bills. I was constantly having to keep up with what I had said and what was going on. When I finally came to a breaking point I let it all go. I spilled my guts and from that day forward my life was something different. My life now is an open and free book. I have nothing to hide and nothing to be ashamed of. You can also use the same principles in your recovery process. Let people check up on you, be accountable to someone. Have surprise “inspections”, stay focused on your goal. This will help begin the process of regaining trust.

A recent study out of Stamford suggests that, strictly speaking, the
average individual shades the truth 3-4 times in a typical 10 minute
conversation. Most of us do this in a misguided attempt to protect
something – a relationship, a person, a situation, a perception, even
ourselves. The addict does this same thing, but in the
extreme, because s/he operates under the even more misguided notion
that maintaining the “truth” that s/he is fostering to avoid the consequences
attached to the actual truth and the lie that hides it.  Be transparent, let people see through you!

If you have an addiction to porn or anything else know that there are people who care and want to help. The main thing is to know that Jesus loves you! No matter what your struggles are. He is the one constant in our lives. If you are recovering, hide nothing! Let people into your life you trust and know will keep you accountable and will help you stay on track. Until next week..

 

Steve Oh

Love Jesus/Love People