The Language of Recovery
61Again, this week I was reminded of the importance of understanding the language of recovery. At the core of this new language is the concepts of acceptance and surrender. But, what are we actually accepting and surrendering to? It really is quite simple and yet so difficult to get. To survive in the world the limbic system gives us the determination to fight and strive for things. It lends us great power to accomplish our goals throughout life. The limbic system gives you strength and power like "The Incredible Hulk." Without it we wouldn't amount to much in life. We need to accept that fact that it is just a part of who we are.
Now, here is the challenge and where the new language of acceptance and surrender comes into play. When we naively try to turn this "will power" on the very source from which it springs we run into trouble. It is like Underdog (an old cartoon character) fighting the Incredible Hulk. Remember to the limbic system sexuality is a survival need. It doesn't understand what you are doing when you say "No" to acting out. It only gets frustrated and interprets that you are a threat to its survival. It then shows you who is boss! When you learn to accept it for what it is and then gently lead its energy into other paths it will follow! This is the great secret of recovery. It will follow if you quit fighting it.
