Hope doesn't just happen. Hope is not a wish for something as much as it is taking action because you know there is something better out there. When did you discover hope for yourself?

Addiction affects the entire family. If you have an addicted loved one, especially one in denial, you must get help for you. This is an honest appraisal of addictive behavior that is important for you to know.

When we let go and let God we are practicing Step Three. Think of the angst you suffered in the past by trying to do it all by yourself. In sobriety we never have to bear a burden alone. We turn it over to a Higher Power and feel a freedom that gives us peace.

This is the time of year all Americans celebrate independence. When is your Independence Day? What price did you pay for your freedoms? New freedoms and happiness await one day at a time.

The word "humility" takes on new meaning as we progress through the steps. By the time we are ready for Step Seven, we understand how beautiful and freeing humility can be.

An up-front, honest review of "How to STOP Screwing Up". Author, Martha Woodroof, uses the 12 Steps to help anyone confront their evil urges in an offbeat, sometimes humorous way. But is this book for everyone?

I am away this week and since it is August (8th month), I wanted to highlight Step 8. To date, this has been my most-read article. Your ability to make amends with confidence and sincerity depends on how well you prepare. Don't believe that you can go this route alone.

We all understand the power of prayer in recovery. When things are good, prayer is easy. But when life takes a wrong turn focusing on prayer may be more difficult. So before another day goes by, ask yourself, "How do I pray?"

Can a person be released from an addiction through self-help, psychiatry, or medication? Here are reasons how and why 12 Step Recovery programs have been successful for over 50 years. If you have already tried these steps and you feel they didn't work, try again!

The holidays can be a slippery slope for those of us in recovery. Nothing is more important than our sobriety but we can attend those holiday parties safely and have fun.