Conversion in humility progresses with perseverance, trust in God and the “program” no matter the temptations, falls, or suffering. “Keep coming back, it works if you work it” we exclaim for a reason! Perseverance is actualized in repentance, the contrition exercised in the hard work of Steps 4 through 10, and strengthened by the sacraments. We thereby gain the gift of serenity, of “living life on life’s terms,” of “accepting hardship as the pathway to peace,” of embracing our powerlessness. It is the attitude of a life steeped in humility and a sign of a maturing recovery.

Conversion in humility is deepened with self-abasement, of not being self-obsessed or taking oneself too seriously, of “staying in the herd.” Prudence is the correct formation of conscience in the teachings of the Church and the principles of recovery that serve to guide our thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. And silence is classically Benedictine. The Rule begins with the command “listen” to remind one that one’s life is not one’s own. It belongs to God, so listen to Him who loves you! It is adoration of our Higher Power. It is what Step 11 should be all about.

Conversion in humility culminates with honoring the inherent dignity of every individual’s belovedness in the eyes of God, including our own, and of recognizing that Christ is mysteriously present in every person He providentially brings into our lives and our mutual weaknesses which we are called to bear together. It manifests in the Benedictine ideal of hospitality, of loving God by loving neighbor. Discretion is self-mastery in Christ as expressed in discernment, wisdom, and sanity, no longer being reckless in thought, word, and deed and driven by pride and narcissistic self-aggrandizement. And finally, reverence is living every moment in the presence of God, of comporting our entire lives as a living prayer and oblation to God.

Saint Benedict of Nursia, pray for us!

Reflection Questions

• How do you recognize pride as the driving force in your life of active addiction? How did you begin to learn and live humility?
• How could Saint Benedict’s 12 degrees of humility deepen your daily conversion in recovery?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Hosea 11:1-4, 8e-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 80:2ac and 3b, 15-16
Gospel: Matthew 10:7-15

Reflection by Pete S.