Voices in Our Heads

 

Opinions, reactions, criticisms, regrets—from morning till night, our thoughts spin the fabric of our day. We listen as if powerless as thoughts free or torment us, energize us or weigh us down. They may talk about shame, fear, and resentment—or pride, faith, and gratitude.

Instead of letting ourselves be controlled by the ceaseless voices in our heads, we remind ourselves of our options. We can sit in meditation, noticing the flow of thoughts and gently detaching from them. We can change our negative thinking, deliberately focusing on images of comfort, courage, and healing. We choose to give such positive thoughts our attention, letting them fill us with hope and serenity. We can receive help with releasing negative thoughts by talking with a trusted friend or sponsor or attending a recovery meeting.

Today, I am nourished and supported by positive thoughts. I choose my thoughts as I do my friends, staying with those I find uplifting.