behavior, but we don’t yet have a better and healthier alternative available. We are betwixt and between. We are in limbo.

Our pride system imposes a set of shoulds on our behavior to support the realization of the idealized self.

Now let’s use this discussion of addiction to understand self-destructive behavior. The first thing to consider is whether our disease is once again trying to establish a foothold in our life. It may be setting us up in order to take charge and again run the show. Remember, it is always looking for that opportunity to convince us to return to

Remember, in honesty there is freedom.

Recovery

Self-erasing is a term that was coined by Theodore Isaac Rubin, M.D. Self-erasing is seeking emotional security by not being present in our life. This way of living makes no waves and discourages others from taking notice. Tiptoeing through life becomes natural because our goal is to avoid conflict and rejection. We deny and repress our needs. We

not want to see reality because of what it ultimately means. For us, the truth is that we are not able to drink or use other drugs—we are not who we thought we were.

Games do not help us grow up and become responsible—quite the contrary. Games keep us stuck and emotionally immature. The choice is ours. Every choice, regardless of its nature, has a dilemma associated with it. If we continue to play games, we will remain emotionally immature, alienate people we care about, and frustrate those who try to help us.

hope.