In this episode, I discuss the tendency many of us in recovery have to hide our unpleasant feelings, behaviors, and even ourselves. I share my experiences of moving from hiding to healing and the challenges and rewards of embracing honesty. Throughout my life, I’ve had an automatic reaction to unpleasant feelings: hide them. This tendency was most intense during my late active alcoholism when I would hide my alcohol bottles and boxes just like I hid my emotions, behaviors, and obsessions. Hiding became a way of life for me, allowing me to avoid facing consequences as long as I could keep the unpleasantness out of sight.

Constant hiding led me to make wrong decisions, further isolating myself and making it hard to imagine a life without hiding. The turning point came when I realized that hiding was slowing killing me. Admitting this to myself was the first step toward recovery, requiring a deep, painful look at my life and choices. In recovery, I learned that honesty and openness are key. Through prayer, self-reflection, and community and professional support, I began to face my feelings and behaviors head-on.

Today, I strive to live with honesty and openness. Facing unpleasant emotions has been critical for true healing.

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