In 12 step literature, they say that resentment is the number one offender and research would tend to agree. Resentment and anger can lead to challenging emotions and behaviors. When we are angry, our judgement gets clouded which can result in poor decision making. Pain, anger, and resentment are easy to perseverate upon because they have become well known emotions to those who have lied in active addiction.. And what is familiar, is comforting.
In recovery, we do not have the luxury of being resentful at someone or something. The negative effects of those emotions on our minds and bodies put us at too high a risk. Therefore, we need to lean away from anger and lean into forgiveness. We also have to focus on our side of the street and our recovery. So today, let’s choose to let go, not get dragged.