Words Matter: Monty Mann on the Power of Language in Recovery
If you want to turn your life around, turn your words around and get them to work for you instead of against you.
Ever stopped to think about how your words affect others, especially in recovery? In this episode of 'Take 12 Recovery Radio', Monty Dale Meyer, affectionately known as the Monty'man, tackles the profound impact of language on sobriety. The episode, titled 'What's Coming Out of Your Mouth?', invites listeners to reflect on whether their words build up or tear down those around them. Monty Mann delves into everything from casual jokes to harmful comments, emphasizing the need for mindful communication.
One memorable moment in the episode is when Monty recounts a graduation ceremony where humor was used to ease nervousness. He admits that humor has often been his own defense mechanism but warns against constantly speaking negatively. According to him, negative words can create a negative world, making it crucial to flip the script and use language that uplifts. Monty also shares a personal story about dealing with toxic people in recovery.
He recalls a painful encounter with a group that left him feeling hurt and unwelcome. Despite this, he underscores the importance of being helpful to others, citing the Alcoholics Anonymous principle of aiding those still struggling, regardless of past grievances. The episode doesn’t just stop at anecdotes; it dives into the connection between emotional sobriety and spiritual well-being. Monty recommends Dr. Alan Berger's workshop on emotional sobriety as a valuable resource.
To top it all off, listeners are treated to the soothing sounds of 'Folk Singer' by Mike O'Bryan, a song that encapsulates the healing power of recovery-focused music. 'What's Coming Out of Your Mouth?' offers a thought-provoking look at how our words can either support or hinder our recovery journey. Through personal stories and expert advice, Monty Mann encourages us to harness the power of positive language for a more supportive and uplifting recovery experience.