The Role of Forgiveness in Recovery

In the struggle to become sober, forgiveness can sometimes be overlooked therefore delaying the recovery process.  Alcohol is an escape for many people, helping them to forget about past traumas and indiscretions.  In reality, alcohol abuse only delays recovery from a traumatic past and the journey to a successful future.

There are many factors that contribute to a person suffering from alcohol addiction.  Physically, a person may be predisposed to abuse alcohol.  Some may disagree that alcohol addiction is a physical affliction but I feel that many factors push a person to try alcohol therefore bringing to light the physical need that they possess.

Psychologically, some may use alcohol to “treat” their depression or other afflictions that they are not aware of.  Depression and alcohol abuse are closely related as are other psychological disorders but unfortunately, many people may abuse alcohol without realizing the reason that they are doing it.

An abusive childhood or a traumatic experience can devastate a person, driving them to seek comfort in drugs or alcohol.  I feel that this is the most important factor in determining whether or not a person will abuse.  I realize that alcoholics can have normal childhood but studies have shown that many have suffered physical, mental or sexual abuse in their childhoods.  They lack in self esteem and a proper support system to encourage and love them.  Alcohol becomes a way to deal with life and their past.

This is where forgiveness comes into play.  The ability to forgive the past and those in it can work wonders on recovery.  Forgiveness doesn’t mean justifying one’s behavior; it means giving yourself permission to live a productive and happy life.  Forgiving someone doesn’t mean saying it to them face to face; it means acknowledging that what they did was wrong and knowing that it wasn’t your fault.  It’s allowing yourself to thrive and prosper and not letting others bring you down.  It’s forgiving yourself for past indiscretions and mistakes that may have occurred while under the influence.  Finally, forgiveness means loving yourself and believing that you deserve a better life.

Without forgiveness, recovery cannot happen.  Old memories will bring you down and issues will arise again and again.  Forgiveness does not have to happen alone; there are people who are trained to help.  Take the first step and ask for help.  You will find that help is there and forgiveness is possible.  It can only get better.  Take that chance and put yourself first.  You’ll be forever grateful that you did.