Arthur Messenger's Journey: Unveiling the Heart of Recovery Through Stories
You know, we find out that, as an alcoholic and as an addict that we, you know, we all need to acquire an attitude of gratitude.
What if you had the chance to sit down with seasoned veterans of recovery and hear their raw, unfiltered stories? Arthur Messenger did just that, spending four years interviewing long-timers in recovery. In this episode of 'Spirit of Recovery', Rev. Dan Beckett and Rev. Michelle Vargas welcome Arthur to discuss his book, 'Tales From the Center of the Herd'.
Named December 2013 Book of the Month by 'In The Rooms—A Global Recovery Community', this collection of 18 stories is a testament to the power of human connection and spiritual community. Arthur shares what he learned from these incredible individuals—stories that are honest, funny, and wise. These narratives highlight how spiritual communities can help turn lives around, offering hope and guidance to those struggling with addiction.
The hosts and Arthur delve into various themes, including the importance of understanding a higher power, practicing gratitude, and maintaining anonymity in recovery. One standout lesson from this episode is the value of gratitude. As one of the book's contributors put it, having a higher power of one's own understanding allows for a broad definition that includes everyone. This inclusive approach is crucial for fostering a supportive community.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the practical aspects of recovery, from the challenges of addiction to the rewards of embracing spiritual principles. The episode wraps up with a call to action, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own understanding of higher power and to practice gratitude in their daily lives.
'Tales From the Center of the Herd' and Arthur's other works, including 'Living the 12 Steps of Recovery - One Day at a Time', are available on Amazon and Kindle. Tune in to 'Spirit of Recovery' for more inspiring stories and practical advice every Wednesday.