V. Inquiry: Guiding Principle
V. INQUIRY
LOOKING WITHIN OURSELVES
“We explore the Four Noble Truths as they relate to our addictive behavior through writing and sharing in-depth, detailed Inquiries. These can be worked with the guidance of a mentor, in partnership with a trusted friend, or with a group. As we complete our written Inquiries, we undertake to hold ourselves accountable and take direct responsibility for our actions, which includes making amends for the harm we have caused in our past.” – Recovery Dharma Workbook
GUIDING PRINCIPLE
Renunciation alone is not recovery. Healing the wounds of addiction requires more than mere abstinence. To fully heal from the wounds and suffering of addiction, we must explore, investigate, and understand the underlying causes and conditions. Addicts who are unwilling to do the work of self-inquiry and self-reflection will inevitably see their addictive behaviors manifest elsewhere in their lives.
EARLY ADVICE
Many in our recovery community have found the regular process of self-inquiry and self-reflection to be the most enriching and rewarding part of our lives in sobriety.
“We need the courage to learn from our past and not live in it.” – Sharon Salzberg
The inquiry process is ultimately the most personal and intimate portion of the Recovery Dharma program. There is no one single best way to approach the Inquiries. Because of this, please see the full Recovery Dharma workbook for extensive details about the Inquiry process, including a full list of Inquiry questions for both the Four Noble Truths, and all eight folds of the Eightfold Path.
Within the context of this beginner’s guide, understand that this principle will need to be explored in greater depth when the time is right.
DHARMA SAYING
‘Our trauma is not our fault, but healing from it is our responsibility, and our right.’ – Recovery Dharma Workbook
PRACTICAL PRATICE TIP
WISE SPEECH – SHARING YOUR INQUIRY
Three general themes to remember as you approach all your inquiries:
(1) This is a process of self-exploration and self-discovery, not a confession of guilt or shame. (2) Take your time and be kind to yourself. Self-compassion is key to this process. (3) Enlist the support and help of a trusted Wise Friend or therapeutic professional; we often uncover difficult or hard-to-manage emotions during the Inquiry process.