Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: PHONE (11/10/16)
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TITLE: Smart Phone, Smart Recovery | Previous Challenge Entry
By Marshall V Pierce
11/16/16 -
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The main idea of this short article is to give an overview of the wondrous tools and capabilities that technology places right at this addict's fingertips. In a pocket-sized computer there lies a full toolbox with everything I need to stay on the narrow road. Here are just a few:
PHONE/MAKING CONTACTS: Let’s start with the obvious! A smartphone does, of course, still have the basic functionality that allows me to talk to people in real-time. Being able to connect with my support friends - at any time (and especially in moments of temptation), is a must. And, these days, I can even choose to interact with my contacts face-to-face with video calling. Add to these texting and email, and it is almost possible to get someone on the line 24x7x365.
CALENDAR/TO DO LISTS: There are many scheduling apps available, and some have built in list-making functionality. I easily add every group meeting and coffee-get-together to the calendar, along with reminder alerts so I’m not late. And I take a general approach to To Do Lists - that is, I don’t map my time out minute-by-minute, but use the list as a quick check-off for the things I need or want to accomplish each day. Otherwise, I’ve found that my addictive personality leads me to either focus obsessively on one task, or become overwhelmed by ineffective multi-tasking.
INSTANT BIBLE-READING: I prefer not to lug a physical copy of God’s Word around with me. Instead, with my handheld device I have two other ways I can access it, (almost) anywhere, anytime. There are apps which include a full Bible download (for use even when out of range), or I simply use the phone’s web browser to access one of many online Bible sites. (I prefer BibleGateway.com, although I just as often will Google “Bible Verses [subject]” to get immediate answers.) I can also read other recovery material with the Kindle or iBooks apps. I assure you, reading now fills much of the time I used to spend behaving badly.
PRAISE & WORSHIP: I have found nothing more proactive in maintaining my spiritual journey than immersing myself in music, and my phone’s built-in mp3 player holds over 4 gigs of contemporary Praise and Worship. (I sadly have to prune songs to save space.) Inspiration through my sense of hearing gives me a better “high” than any substance ever did. Since I’ve also returned to being a musician, I now have a great way to practice making my joyful noise!
There are many other ways technology makes it good to be in recovery today: Journal apps of different kinds, voice recorders, audio podcasts, daily devotionals, GPS for finding meeting locations, my church’s app for sermons, and more!
CAVEAT: I would be remiss not to include a word of caution. For some, unmonitored access to the internet can pose a problem. It is possible and quite easy to reach questionable sites. I am fortunate in this regard, but I have heard that there are aids for controlling what can be viewed on the phone.
I hope this has helped you, whether or not you are in recovery!
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The first two paragraphs could be worked on to make it slide into the topic smoother.