Watching pelicans at sunrise on the beach makes me feel Connected.

A few months ago I learned that Someone I Love Dearly (SILD) is a heroin addict. SILD is now some 3 months into recovery, and committed to a 12-step program with the fervor of a religious convert. The program has transformed SILD’s level of self-awareness and equanimity in truly remarkable ways. I regularly attend Al-Anon meetings (these are meetings for loved ones of addicts) and that has got me slightly considering doing my own 12-step program.

The 12-step program requires recognition of a higher power. Doesn’t have to be God or a religion, but it has to be something. I know I feel Something when I am connected with nature, and I certainly have tremendous respect for the power and insight of the unconscious – collective and individual. Although I initially felt forced to re-open this internal debate – as I struggled with SILD’s addiction – I am gradually coming to realize it’s time for me to think this through again.

(This post topic comes from The Daily Prompt.)