My Life in a Box (from David)

David sent me this blog post. It is dated September 20, 2009.

David writes:

In this particular jail you're given a plastic box that's probably 18"X24"X12". Everything you "own" in jail must fit inside that box. They usually contain writing materials, books, magazines, underwear(clean), pictures, letters from outside, etc...Since I have only been here 1 week. mine is 1/5 full. That is, in some ways, how I see my life now. Lisa and I have done alot of work the last 9 months and have made solid progress. But, I believe it is just a start. We're maybe "1/5" of the way there. We've started by filling our "box" with the basics: recovery, sobriety, honesty, ridding resentments, respect, learning how to communicate, trust, helping others, building a relationship with God. Those are all necessities to survive, in my opinion. Next, we are starting to work on some of the skills and tools that will make life more rewarding and enjoyable. In here I can buy a radio to help pass the time. In my life these are the benefits of recovery and redemption: self-acceptance, connectedness, selflessness, God-centered, security, contentment, etc... I've glimpsed a couple of these as I've rummaged through my box lately. Ultimately, I believe the box will be overflowing with bounty from our efforts. Both in our personal lives and, I pray, in the lives of others.

God bless,
David