*March 28*

*Facing feelings*

*“We may fear that being in touch with our feelings will trigger an
overwhelming chain reaction of pain and panic.”*

*Basic Text, p. 30*

––––=––––

While we were using, many of us were unable or unwilling to feel many
emotions. If we were happy, we used to make us happier. If we were angry or
depressed, we used to mask those feelings. In continuing this pattern
throughout our active addiction, we became so emotionally confused that we
weren’t sure what normal emotions were anymore.

After being in recovery for some time, we find that the emotions we had
suppressed suddenly begin to surface. We may find that we do not know how
to identify our feelings. What we may be feeling as rage may only be
frustration. What we perceive as suicidal depression may simply be sadness.
These are the times when we need to seek the assistance of our sponsor or
other members of NA. Going to a meeting and talking about what is happening
in our lives can help us to face our feelings instead of running from them
in fear.

––––=––––

*Just for today:* I will not run from the uncomfortable emotions I may
experience. I will use the support of my friends in recovery to help me
face my emotions.

* *

Copyright © 1991-2012 by Narcotics Anonymous World Services, Inc. All
Rights Reserved