III. Meetings: Guiding Principle
III. MEETINGS
COMMITING TO CHANGE
“We attend recovery meetings whenever possible, in person and/or online. Some may wish to be part of other recovery fellowships and Buddhist communities. In early recovery, it is recommended to attend a recovery meeting as often as possible. For many that may mean every day. We also commit to becoming an active part of the community, offering our own experiences and service wherever possible.” – Recovery Dharma Workbook
GUIDING PRINCIPLE
We regularly attend recovery meetings both for ourselves and to support the recovery of others in our community. We become an active part of the community wherever possible. We learn that we are not alone in our addictive nature, and we learn to practice Wise Speech in meetings, sharing openly and honestly. We learn from our Wise Friends that Recovery is Possible.
EARLY ADVICE
It has been said by a well-known Buddhist teacher that, “True healing, rarely happens in isolation.” As a recovery community, we have found this saying to be especially true. In early recovery, allow the group to encourage you and inspire you on your recovery journey. Listen for the similarities. Begin the process of opening up to others, and begin the path of healing and forgiveness.
“Through listening at meetings and sharing our own experiences, we begin to see how we’re not uniquely broken or flawed.” – Recovery Dharma Workbook
Making the commitment to regularly attend meetings is often the first actionable step that we make in recovery. Buddhism is more than just a philosophy; it is a way of wise living. It is a Practice. As a Practice, it demands action. Wise Action.
PRACTICAL PRATICE TIP
TAKING REFUGE – THE THREE JEWELS OF RECOVERY
I. BUDDHA – Begin the process of rediscovering your own Buddha Nature, and inner goodness. Be kind to yourself and begin to realize that none of us are solely defined by our addiction(s). This is a program of empowerment.
II. DHARMA – Read through the Recovery Dharma workbook and begin the process of reflecting on the inquiry questions. Seek out additional Dharma resources where appropriate that speak to your heart and your recovery. A full list of additional resources can be found on pages 17 and 18 of this booklet.
III. SANGHA – Commit to regular attendance of recovery meetings. Show up early, stay afterwards, and do the best you can to speak with others and share honestly. Take Refuge in the larger recovery community, and know that you are not alone.