WISDOM FROM WITHIN
We asked three local individuals in recovery about the vital lessons that keep them grounded and sober
BY PAULO MURILLO
IN THE NOW
“I’ve learned to stay out of the result and remain in the present. The most powerful moment is right now. When I look back, I breed resentment; when I try to control the future, I live in fear. By staying in the now, I’ve found a beautiful serenity, knowing that whatever happens next is in God’s hands, not my own.”
—Arianna Taylor, sober since November 21, 2024.
TOOLS AND CLARITY
“A major lesson for me has been recognizing that external resentments are often just projections of my own internal conflicts. Through therapy and the 12 steps, I’ve learned to slow down and change how I speak to myself. I used to speak to myself with internalized trauma and shame in ways I would never speak to another person. Sobriety hasn’t changed my desire to be a better person, but it has finally given me the tools and clarity to do the actual work.”
—Gaius Terran, sober since June 13, 2025)
SPIRITUAL PRINCIPLES
“I am a product of my environment, and surrounding myself with a sober community that practices spiritual principles has made all the difference. Seeing others use these tools to heal has allowed me to grow closer not just to people in the rooms, but to the ‘normies’ in my life as well. Above all, learning to apply spiritual tools—especially daily gratitude—keeps me grounded and incredibly grateful to be here today.”
—Trevor Helms, sober since July 4, 2023.
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