The Fun We Had is a collection of articles and poems written over the past three years. Many of these items have appeared on the website of Castle Craig Hospital www.castlecraig.co.uk and the websites of Poetry Changes Lives - www.poetrychangeslives.com and www.poetrytherapy.news.
Addiction treatment is a serious business where pain often comes before gain and encouragement can make a huge difference; recovery on the other hand, should be enjoyed - it is the chance of a second life that should be taken wholeheartedly. Many recovering addicts find themselves doing and relishing activities that they never dreamt of before. They find themselves to be ‘better than well’. The Fun We Had is about this.
The Twelve Step Programme of recovery is unique in that it introduces the idea of spirituality, an idea formulated by Psychologist Carl Jung when writing to Bill W (co-founder of AA) in 1934 as ‘spiritus contra spiritum’ (ie: spirituality against alcoholic spirits). Spirituality is usually profoundly lacking in those in active addiction but the process of enquiry into this, in recovery, is for many a fascinating and life changing experience.
It is hoped that The Fun We Had will provide some insights into both addiction and the enjoyment of recovery. This small book covers some points on the journey from ‘terminally unwell’ to ‘better than well’. You don’t have to be an addict to read it but if you’re not - this is what you’re missing.