As much as we fight it, human nature, jealousy and envy can make us forget what real gratitude is all about. Gratitude is not in what we say but in how we feel in our hearts and souls.

Our children may not acknowledge our addiction(s) because of their age or the situation. What we must understand is that when we are in our disease, we are not the only person being judged. Our children may suffer more than we know and it isn't about them.

Has anyone in your recovery every questioned if you really were an alcoholic, addict, etc.? That can be dangerous if you have not totally accepted Step One. Even oldtimers might be convinced they are no longer addicted. This is about denial when you are not the person denying your addiction.

If you are a "real" addict, new addictions may enter your life more than you would like. Most of these are perfectly harmless and they will probably find their own end. Recognize them for what they are and take it easy.

New Year's resolutions are passe but focusing on a meaningful mantra to live by is not. If you haven't thought about adding anything new to your repertoire of words to live by, try these....embrace life!

My most popular article to date is "How To Make Amends - Step 8". Since that is only the first part of the process, I wanted to republish my thoughts on Step 9. Only by working these two steps can we begin the maintenance of our sobriety and know the fruits of the Promises.