I have previously written about agency and choices. Each of us has experiences—some good, some not so good, and some poor—that highlight the impact of our decisions. We often exercise personal freedoms without fully considering the consequences. This theme resonates deeply in today's Daily Reflection.
A.A.’s FREEDOMS:
“We trust that we already know what our several freedoms truly are; that no future generation of AAs will ever feel compelled to limit them. Our AA freedoms create the soil in which genuine love can grow.”
— Language of the Heart, p. 303
At the beginning of recovery, many of us believed we were free. However, the shackles of addiction kept us from seeing the reality of our condition and from envisioning what we could become. This is the paradox of freedom: what we once saw as liberation was, in truth, bondage. We clung to the “freedom to drink,” only to discover that true freedom lay in the “freedom from drink.”
The New Freedom of Recovery
Recovery introduces a new kind of freedom—not one based on rigid rules and forced participation, but on guidance and spiritual principles that encourage voluntary engagement. In A.A., we freely choose to participate and gain the rewards of community and friendship. Healing and transformation cannot be imposed; they must come from within. The elements of recovery—sponsorship, meetings, and fellowship—are offered as support, not obligations.
As Søren Kierkegaard wisely stated:
“The most tremendous thing granted to human beings is choice and freedom. But with it comes responsibility.”
This means that using free will wisely is essential to living a meaningful and dignified life.
The Biblical Perspective on Freedom
Scripture reinforces that freedom is a divine gift, intended to be exercised with wisdom and love:
Galatians 5:13 states:
“For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.”
This passage reminds us that while we have the power to choose, true freedom is found in using that liberty to serve and uplift others rather than indulging selfish desires.
Freedom and Accountability in LDS Teachings
Agency, as taught in LDS doctrine, is a divine gift that comes with responsibility. President Thomas S. Monson expressed this beautifully:
“The gift of agency is precious. We are surrounded—even besieged—by the messages of the adversary. But through wise choices, we find joy and retain our dignity.”
Dignity is preserved through righteous choices. The ability to act according to moral agency is what allows individuals to reclaim their self-worth and spiritual direction.
Restoring Dignity Through Recovery
The idea of regaining dignity is particularly important. Addiction often strips away self-respect, leaving individuals feeling powerless and ashamed. However, the freedoms found within A.A.—choosing to work the program, seeking help when needed, and engaging in a spiritual journey at one’s own pace—allow individuals to rebuild that lost dignity. These freedoms create an environment where love, self-worth, and lasting sobriety can flourish.
Conclusion
Freedom, when properly understood and exercised, leads to dignity and purpose. Whether viewed through the lens of A.A., philosophy, the Bible, or LDS teachings, the message is clear: freedom of choice is a gift from God, and it is through wise and righteous choices that we reclaim our dignity and find lasting peace.
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