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There’s something called ‘program-speak,’ which refers to some of the common phrases and sayings people in recovery can be heard saying. For those of us in the program, when we hear these things, we know that they are really thinly-veiled suggestions on what we need to be doing. Here are 10 things people in recovery say, and what they really mean. And remember folks, this article is for entertainment purposes so, please don’t get all butt-hurt. Enjoy!
#1. Things People in Recovery Say: “You should talk to your sponsor about it.”
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What They Really Mean: This is one of three things, all of which are basically saying the same thing: “Don’t ask me about it/I don’t want to touch this issue/I don’t know what to say about it.”
#2. Things People in Recovery Say: “Have you prayed about it?”
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What They Really Mean: “Again, whatever it is you’re asking me about or dealing with seems way over my head. So much so, that what I’m really saying is, only your Higher Power can help you with this one. Sorry.”
#3. Things People in Recovery Say: “How’s your prayer and meditation?”
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What They Really Mean: “You’re acting kind of like a jerk. You might want to consider working on your spiritual program because you’ve been pretty irritable lately.”
#4. Things People in Recovery Say: “When’s the last time you went to a meeting?”
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What They Really Mean: “You *probably* need a meeting. You should really get to a meeting, soon.”
#5. Things People in Recovery Say: “What would you say to your sponsee if they asked that question?”
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What They Really Mean: “Pull your head out of you’re a$$. You know the answer to your question so, stop playing coy.”
#6. Things People in Recovery Say: “When’s the last time you helped someone?”
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What They Really Mean: “You’re being selfish. Go help someone.”
#7. Things People in Recovery Say: “Do you think this relationship is beneficial to your recovery?”
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What They Really Mean: This one is really a rhetorical question saying, “This relationship is not beneficial to your recovery program.”
#8. Things People in Recovery Say: “That’s not true for this alcoholic.”
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What They Really Mean: “I’m calling bullsh*t on the things people in the program say that oversimplify the work that’s required to stay clean and sober.”
#9. Things People in Recovery Say: “I’m not gonna tell you who you can or can’t date.”
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What They Really Mean: “But I’m going to suggest that you wait until you get through your steps before you consider dating.”
#10. Things People in Recovery Say: “Do you see your part in it?”
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What They Really Mean: Basically, “Stop playing the victim. You’re not completely innocent in the situation and you get to look at your part in it – where you’ve been selfish and self-serving.”
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