Honesty And Transparency

Last night I was having dinner with a friend in long term recovery. We were discussing, among other things, the ups and downs of life, and more specifically a life in recovery. She remarked that she felt that while her honesty and transparency served her well in recovery, that perhaps it handicapped her somewhat in the business world.

I understood her point, but let her know that I, and my experience, disagree. Perhaps in the short term I replied, but never in the long run. Notwithstanding a certain amount of posturing and strategy, most of the time, what you see is what you get with people- be the relationship personal or professional.

As Maya Angelou famously said, “When people show you who they are, believe them.”

Recently I celebrated a recovery birthday. On that day, I called the woman I have been blessed to call my sponsor since the beginning of my journey. I thanked her for her guidance and honesty and told her that in my life God has shown up with skin on. I have made tons of mistakes in sobriety, but one thing I have done consistently is to remain in a rigorously honest relationship with one woman, and to be willing to take her suggestions. I have given her spiritual consent to help me see myself when I cannot.

It is imperative for me to remain honest, open-minded and willing, and to practice principles in all of my affairs. Having a fellowship around me that knows me, warts and all, is a part of the overall process that ensures honesty and principles remain at the forefront of my relationships and affairs.

I haven’t come across any burning bushes lately, but I come across people daily in my path that are examples of recovery and have attributes of a living God. I am experiencing immense gratitude for the wise teachers and spiritual warriors that have been placed in my path. Connectivity is vital, and I am blessed to be connected. TYG

Marsha Stone, CEO
BRC Recovery