A SANE MAP for Living. Much of the  content of LIVING THROUGH ADDICTION revolves around this acronym. There is a story behind this acronym which I shall share later. Suffice for a very brief introduction that the S denotes Spirituality. As will become obvious as we journey together, my definition of Spirituality is very wide and inclusive.
No-one should think there is anything dogmatic or exclusive in my usage of this word. Nevertheless, I shall be recounting my own experiences and understanding of Spirituality which in fact underpins my whole approach to healing and recovery.
I shall be discussing various levels of my experience of this acronym: at a certain level my understanding, embracing and external expression of Spirituality enabled me to lead a very full(filling) life even during the many years of my alcohol abuse and addiction. But, vitally, at a deeper level of Spiritual experience I was empowered to overcome the addiction and continue in my leading a non-alcohol-addicted life. Freedom!!
Essentially my desire and intention is to pass on to others whatever benefits may accrue from the recounting of parts of my life story: experiences, reading writing and studies. This will encompass all aspects of my life, so that hopefully others may learn from my successes and failures; my strengths and weaknesses; my light or benevolent characteristics and behaviour as well as my dark or shadow characteristics and behaviour.
This is an honest and open attempt to hold my life up as a mirror in which others may see something of themselves, both good and less so. I hope that you as reader may be beneficially affected and effected in some way, whether primarily for yourself or someone else known to you.

Originally posted: 31 Oct 2011