I’ve had moments when I finally recognized something about myself that, looking back, should have been obvious a long time ago. Sometimes it took uncomfortable circumstances (or, more accurately, consequences). Other times, I simply became willing to acknowledge what I’d been avoiding.
One of my favorite phrases in the story of the prodigal son is that he “came to himself.” (Luke 15.17)
He didn’t suddenly become a different person. He recognized where his choices had taken him, stopped avoiding reality, and became willing to do something about it.
I think growth often begins the same way. Not with a dramatic breakthrough, someone else fixing the situation, increasingly painful consequences, or arbitrary punishments.
Sometimes it begins when we’re finally willing to see ourselves honestly.
Coming to yourself can be uncomfortable, especially when it means taking responsibility for choices we’d rather ignore. But clarity is a gift when it helps us recognize the next step toward healing.
Being in recovery has made me come to terms with this question: What might I finally recognize about my life if I stopped defending, explaining, or avoiding what needs my attention?
With hope,
Nathan
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