What is Inner Freedom?

[drpearlman]

For many people recovering from alcohol, spirituality plays an important role in maintaining sobriety. This discussion forum may not be for everyone and you can make that judgment for yourself. For those who would like to share in this dialogue feel free to talk about how you have been helped by your high power, discuss your version of the Higher Power and its role in the recovery process.

If you believe that a power greater than yourself can assist in freeing you from alcohol; if you accept that a higher power can remove the character defects you believe are responsible for your abusive drinking than this discussion forum is for you. If you are curious to learn more about spirituality and how it pertains to you and your recovery you will be welcome. If you are a non believer with an open and tolerant mind, then by all means join in.

Please see our Free Downloads Page for three ‘classic’ books on the personal growth and creation process.

[ikon]

I don't know what I would do if i couldn't gain strength from my higher power to help keep me sober. I can't imagine doing this without some kind of "higher" form of support that I can count on whenever I need it wherever I am. I wasn't very religous and still don't think I really am but I was always spiritual and able to believe that someone greater than me has the power to help me in my recovery.

I get a certain sense of peace and calmness when I pray for help at the worst of times. Initially I went through a health crisis that I'm convinced was overcome by my faith in my higher power and letting go of the need to 'do it myself' so I was able to accept his help. My physical healing was immediate upon giving up my stubbornness.
I haven't been sober long but i know my faith is helping me.

We can't always be expected to be strong.
anyway, enough pontificating for tonight.

[ikon]

I've been thinking alot about my last post and decided to post again [even if I do feel Like I'm talking to myself].

I've started reading a 'daily devotions' booklet from my church. I read a page or two from the book and a few lines from the bible along with the serenity prayer each day. This only takes about ten minutes and I feel very safe and at peace afterwards.

I believe faith has much to do with keeping sober though I'm sure many don't feel this way. I say anyone trying to quit drinking should look to a higher power for guidance even if that higher power is a bush in your back yard [burning is optional]. Why not try it...Whatever works!

[rem1]

Hows it going Ikon ...these are good points you make.
I wouldn't have thought twice about these things until I spent a few meetings at AA. They are big on the higher power in their program and the folks at the meeting I attend are convinced that they are being helped this way.

I am on the fence since I'm not overly religious but I can tell you the ones who've been sober awhile seem to have a confidence and peace about them I wish I had. Maybe it comes with time sober or maybe its their higher power but something is helping them for sure. gotta run ikon, ciao

[drpearlman]

The most important part of the recovery process is regaining access to your higher level of consciousness - more specifically, having access to your experience of happiness or well-being. There are many tools and approaches that can be used as part and parcel of a holistic recovery process. Some of these include keeping a journal for morning and evening, with respect to how you would like your life to be, using reading materials of a spiritual nature and reconnecting with your bodily health through nutrition and exercise. I recommend patients explore these exercises, whether it's through the books or CDs such as 'The Secret', 'A Course in Miracles' or the works of Eckhart Tolle, etc. - there are many paths to connect with what's highest and best in us.

Stephen Covey said it very well when he indicated a primary life purpose is to find our 'voice' and to help others to find their 'voice'. He emphasized, too, finding your 'sense of honor' so that it 'becomes greater than your moods'. I believe that's a wonderful metaphor in helping us on the journey to connect with our 'higher power' and purpose - and taking on that challenge is what, in a self-fulfilling way, creates our happiness and well-being.

Michael Pearlman, M.D.

[rem1]

Hey all: Still going strong with my sobriety and took the advice of an old timer and started reading more than just a newspaper. I'm sure not ready to pick up a bible yet but I have been reading more online regarding personal development. I'm going to the bookstore this weekend to pick up some reading material recommended by Dr. Pearlman on his website.
I thought I'd read the Secret and see what all the fuss is about. This book has reviews everywhere online! My friend at AA also said it will help my mind to focus and perhaps lead to more and better sleep. I have to say that I am feeling better as time passes. Everything is getting a bit easier for me...at home at work. Strength to all! Bye for now.

[rem1]

Just wanted to say I read the blog called 'what true freedom really feels like' and was blown away by how true the description of getting sober was. It sounded like my life story! It was good to remember how tough it was initially getting sober. I'm still a relative newbie to sobriety but still need to be reeled back in once and a while!

[David]

Hi Ikon, Rem1, Dr. Pealrman, and anyone else,
Here is a link to the blog entry mentioned above as it's no longer on the front page.

I enjoyed reading that article as well, but my perspective is completely different. As a coach and supporter of my son I'm constantly looking online for insight into a condition/disease I know little about firsthand.

Its hard to watch someone make poor decisions and have no understanding why they dont just "get it" and move on. It always amazed me that smart people, good people, get caught up in this morass and it consumes them.

I dont think I'll ever "get it" but I've been reading this blog for about 3 months now and am a lot more informed and understanding to the type of war raging in my son's mind and soul and I continue to hope he makes good decisions.

My heart goes out to everyone suffering from this illness.
Rem, congratulations on making it through the storm.

[drpearlman]

Hi Rem1 and David - thank you both for the great posts. I, too, am still excited with each day of 'recovery' - my freedom from alcohol.

I am sharing a video link to all my contacts of the incredible experience of Jill Bolte Taylor who had a 'stroke of insight' - the key piece is that in the experience of the loss of her 'conditioned mind' she gained access to her higher, wiser 'sense of being'. This is the challenge of those who are experiencing the effects of alcohol or are attempting to aid a dear friend or relative.

We wish to convey the 'truth' that behind the pain and suffering of the alcoholically conditioned mind there is a state of 'well-being' that is always, already present. The challenge is to be willing to go to whatever lengths one has to go - upon recognizing that one is sick and tired of being sick and tired - to seek this state of 'well-being' - and there so many wonderful guides, programs, services on the path to this enlightenment.

Thank you, again, for your helpful comments - we are all in the great service of 'carrying the message' - and, there is a solution!