I often hear folks especially in early recovery say they want to "close the door" and end their destructive behaviour or addiction, but then I hear many of these same folks say "but maybe I'll just leave that door open just a crack".
So, for someone who has difficulty in overcoming toxic relationships they might say "I know its not good for me to call them, maybe I'll just send them a quick email or text message" or for someone overcoming overeating or a more recent categorization of "binge eating disorder" might say "I know its probably not in my highest interest to keep that tub of ice cream in my fridge, but the next time I have a guest they may want ice cream".
You can always find a way to rationalize a temptation and/or even act out in addiction. Its been said, to "rationalize" is about "rationing lies to your mind" and most often one lie leads to another, one temptation leads to a bigger one in a destructive slippery slope that will slowly but surely bring you down.
I do recommend closing the door to any or all temptations vs. leaving the door ajar. Recovery is about commitment not convenience. Commitment to follow a path of consistently making healthy choices. A committed choice is one that is consistent regardless of the circumstance, time or place "I'm committed not to smoke no matter what" versus a choice of convenience which is easily changed when circumstances and things are not so convenient "how could you expect me NOT to smoke after having such an awful day at work".
To make choices out of convenience is to keep the door open and invite "unwanted guests" to come in and linger in your life. I recall someone sharing their recovery story who had lived for some time in S. Africa. They said they would be able to keep the big predators away from the house like lions and such by having a big fence around their house, but it was the fire ants, the small little things that usually get past our guard easily that can and often do some serious damage. To leave the door ajar is to let things start to creep in, infest and take over.
You may have done some things in your life already to rid yourself of some of the big vices and temptations you previously engaged in and good for you for doing that. Remember, its often "the little things in life", the little temptations that lead to greater harm which is something to also be mindful of.
We want to make a difference during these tough economic times so for the first half of 2009 we are offering a "Pay What You Can" option.
http://www.liferecoveryprogram.com/register/paywhatyoucan.php
Best of health and warmest regards, Paul Radkowski
info@liferecoveryprogram.com
http://liferecoveryprogram.com/
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