In Times of Illness - Narcotics Anonymous

and remind us how to apply the spiritual principlesof this program to all areas of our lives. With thefreedom to share honestly in meetings comesthe responsibility to seek a solution. In NA, ouridentification as addicts is what we have in common.This allows us to focus on our similarities instead ofour differences. It is possible to find freedom fromactive addiction in NA and to be taking medicationprescribed by an informed healthcare professionalfor a mental illness.With the use of any medication, we must behonest with ourselves, our healthcare team,and our sponsor about our feelings andmotives.In NA the only requirement for membershipis a desire to stop using. As members wehave no reason to judge one another.Meetings are a powerful way of carrying our messageof recovery to the addict who still suffers. Newmembers come to NA with a variety of life problems,and are sometimes disruptive in meetings beforethey learn what is appropriate in that atmosphere.Our first reaction may be apprehension, but it isimportant that we welcome every addict seekingrecovery. We remember the care and concern thathelped us find a sense of belonging in NA. Ourcollective attitude should be one of loving acceptancetoward all addicts, regardless of any other problemsthey may experience. Whether we are the newcomeror have years clean in NA, anonymity means that weall have an equal opportunity to recover.In Times of Illness23