Part of Recovery is changing negative thought patterns. Here is one person's experience, strength, and hope:

 

"It is What it Is"

 

Being an active member of Gamblers Anonymous I hear many recovery slogans, and use them often.  I must confess one slogan I use on a daily basis is "It is What it Is".  For me this is a reminder that things are exactly as they appear to be - reminds me to accept life exactly as it is, no longer fooling myself that I have control over people, places or things.  While putting together this website I realized that this slogan is not just about being in recovery - living my life free from gambling.  This statement can also be about active addiction, and denial of what is really happening.

 

 

Perspective is Everything.....

 

Things in life are never all or nothing, right or wrong,  good or bad.  They are how I see them - what I believe them to be.   My perspective is determined on how I am feeling at the time.  When I am stressed, overwhelmed, and take on more than what I can handle it seems people and situations get on my nerves quickly.   I start to second guess other peoples words and actions.  If I am taking care of me, know my limits,  and am in a healthy mindset  people, places, and things flow off me.  I accept things as they are.

 

Have you ever noticed the difference:

 

I see my sister-in-law that I have not seen in a few months.  She walks into the room and goes over to hug another family member.  My first thought is "is she mad at me?  Why didn't she come over to me first?  blah, blah, blah - stinkin thinkin".   In reality she probably did not notice me yet.  I am tired and it took a lot of effort to go to this family thing.  I do not want to be here and find fault with everything.

 

Same situation - I see my sister-in-law that I have not seen in a few months.  She walks into the room and goes over to hug another family member.  My first thought is "OMG - there is my sister-in-law. She looks great. I have to go over and say hi!".   I am in a good place - taking care of me - so very happy to be with family.

 

 

It is What it Is - and in the end my life will be what I make it.   

 

 

Life is good