Relapse is a trickle that becomes a stream that becomes a river. The key is to catch it while it is still just a trickle.
Any of us is susceptible to relapse. Take this verse to heart: “Let him who thinks he stands take heed, lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12).
In my book, Life Recovery Plan, I write, “Relapse isn’t the road of least resistance, but the road of least persistence.”
Let me offer a solution to relapse from my own experience.
Early in my recovery, I had a slip. But I kept going to meetings. Then I had another slip. So I got a sponsor. And then another slip. I started working the Steps. Still another slip. I added another meeting.
Eventually, I collected my first 30-day chip. Then two months. Eventually, one year, two years, five years, etc.
What brought the breakthrough for me? It was simple. When my addiction hit, I hit back – harder. And to this day, I have never quit punching.
Recovery Step: There is no shame in relapse. But there is shame in giving up. The answer? Keep punching.
