Do’s and don’ts

May 8th, 2012 by Jan

It looks like I’m getting my inspiration by disagreeing with others these days!

Yesterday’s post stirred the pot of controversy a bit. Voicing disagreement is a bit uncomfortable for all involved. The good news is conversation was sparked and everyone came out of it unharmed!

Today, I read one of those inspiring posts from a friend. This was the warm fuzzy kind with kittens and puppies, and gooey hearts. A tad different than Today’s Step but sill, words of wisdom to inspire and support you, whatever the path you take.

But this one was really long, and full of, don’t do this, and don’t do that. Don’t, don’t, don’t…. I found it a bit parental and bossy!

Now, as a teacher, Taurus, wife and mostly because I am who I am — I admit I can be pretty bossy. But I think I stay more on the “do this — or do that” side of things. (Just ask Ken!)

Then, I thought about what I say to most clients when they complete their treatment and get ready to leave the O.

The morning qigong is a very small part of the work they do in treatment — just one tool in a big toolbox full of new direction, knowledge, help and advice, and when we say our goodbyes, I usually say the exact same thing to every one of them.

I stand right in front of them, look them in the eyes and tell them they did good work. That the work they did matters, and that I saw them. Then I ask, “Do you know what to do out there?” I always get an answer. Then I ask, “Do you know what NOT to do out there?” A lot of times, this stumbles them.

What we do in recovery is really important — what we DON’T do, is what makes recovery possible.

Safe journey everyone.

1 thought on “Do’s and don’ts

  1. Laura B

    Actually, Jan, the thing you said to me, that has really stuck with me, was a don’t: Don’t cling.

    Reply

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