An Everyday Clean

Whenever I’m frustrated in my program or in life, or when my selfish, lazy self wants an easy way out, I try to remember that abstinence is like cleanliness. One bath, one toothbrushing, one housecleaning doesn’t last for a week, month, or year—certainly not for a lifetime. Each day I must work at cleanliness if I want the benefits.

My program is no different. Just going to meetings, having a sponsor, and making a food plan doesn’t grant me lifetime abstinence. But daily practice of the Principles, daily use of the Tools, and daily reminders (in thought, prayer, and deed) that I only have the work of this day to manage—and doing the intentional work of this day will give me the benefits.

— Nan