Thought for the Week

Timothy D. Stein, MFT, CSAT

July 9, 2018

“Judgement exacerbates disconnection.” –Brene Brown

Connection is vital in recovery.  Isolation and loneliness, even when we are surrounded by friendly faces, are hallmarks of addiction.  When we judge others, we step one up on them and disconnect.  We cannot be connected and one up.  We can choose to dislike another person’s behaviors or choices and still remain equal to them.  We can even believe someone was intentionally harmful, hold them accountable, and remain equal to them.  Holding ourselves as equal to others allows for connection.

When have I stepped one up by judging someone?  What was my experience of connection in that moment?  What gifts await me as I learn to hold myself equal to others by minimizing judgments and embracing connection?