Building blocks are foundational to anything we hope to build. A building block is simply defined as a basic element or component. Just because it is basic does not minimize its necessity or importance. Look at any scientific method or even protein for that matter – building blocks are essential to understanding how something became something else. Often, building blocks or simple yet, when combined properly can create something more complex. Just like protein, our recovery and new way of living require building blocks.

When I consider the basic elements of my recovery – or referred to as building blocks – I think of six things. The first thing I think about is how I achieve my recovery and secondly, I think about what I do with it. If you are a person of 12-step background and specifically Alcoholics Anonymous you will know that the triangle is their recognized emblem. On one triangle, you will see the word HOW spelled out as honesty, open-minded, and willing. Without these three elements or components, personal recovery will likely escape us all together, it will be marginalized or it will be short-lived. It is only when I embrace these three basic elements that I achieve the transformation that Recovery offers. Once I have begun to establish myself as a person of recovery, I progress to the next level or triangle where I find unity, service, and recovery. These are the basic elements or building blocks to my long-term recovery. Recognizing the importance of unity as a source of agreement and power gives me what I need two to fill the 12 step which is where the rubber meets the road in my serving others as I have been served. As part of that unity in service, I will continue to appreciate and grow my recovery so I am more inclined to unify with others, increase and deep in my level of service which will promote more my personal recovery. Building blocks are essential in all aspects of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of living. I hope you have found this to be true for you.

Robert is the Recovery Guy. Getting clean and sober on April 25, 1986 has given me the insight and practical skill set to not only stay sober, but to also re-invent myself to the person I always wanted to become. Showing others how to do this is my life goal.

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