OLD FEELINGS:

~

Sometimes, the old feelings creep back in. A condition some describe
as "soul sickness."

Many of us felt this way when we began recovery. Sometimes, we slip
back into these feelings after we've begun recovery. Sometimes there's
a reason. An event may trigger these reactions. Times of change can
trigger these reactions. So can physical illness.

Sometimes, these feelings return for no reason.

A return to the old feelings doesn't mean we're back to square one on
our recovery. They do not mean we've failed at recovery. They are
just there.

The solution is the same: practicing the basics. Some of the basics are
loving and trusting our self, detachment, dealing with feelings, giving
and receiving support in the recovery community, using our
affirmations, and having fun.

Another basic is working the Steps. Often, working the Steps is how we
become enabled and empowered to practice the other basics, such as
detachment and self-love.

If the old feelings come back, know for certain there is a way out that
will work.