Reality Check: Find Peace Through Humility

Some of us in early recovery may have a challenging time with the spiritual part of it all. As human beings, we often want answers to all of our questions. We may not feel safe with uncertainty, and cling to any belief to eliminate that fear. We may demand answers about our addiction, life, and the universe that we may never receive. But with patience and practice, we will come to understand things more than we ever did before—especially when it comes to finding and trusting a higher power.

In her book Waiting: A Nonbeliever’s Higher Power, Marya Hornbacher shares her own journey and offers a fresh approach to cultivating a spiritual life in recovery. Anyone who may feel disconnected from traditional ideas of a higher power can use this book to explore the concept of faith.

In this excerpt, Hornbacher writes about humility as an essential element of true spirituality. Awareness of our limitations can ground us in the present moment and bring us back to ourselves. Accepting that we do not know everything—and never will—can bring us peace of mind to freely grow in our spiritual journey.

This excerpt is from the book Waiting: A Nonbeliever’s Higher Power by Marya Hornbacher. It has been edited for brevity.