A sunflower that grows to maturity can produce up to 2000 seeds; that's a huge heaping of potential in one flower head. But those seeds must be harvested when the head dries, then planted and nurtured the next season to grow more. It requires management and consistent action so those seeds won't simply decay on the head or be eaten by birds and other animals. My health, finances, energy and time must be managed the same way, or I will one day find these physical gifts have been wasted. One interesting fact about the sunflower is that before the buds open, they follow the sun. But once they bloom, the flower's tracking behavior stops and the flowers face east. The change is likely a defensive response; facing south or west could result in sun-scalding during very hot days. This the opposite of the Addict, whose motto is always 'More.' Everyone has addictive behaviors, though they might not have chemical dependencies. Do you find it necessary to check your phone every time it buzzes with a text or email? Can you place one item in your Amazon shopping cart and buy it without filling it up with other things (telling yourself it makes sense to get free shipping)? If I don't want to fritter the potential of my life away, I must recognize and change such behavior patterns.
Addiction is the only disease that will try to convince you that you don't have it.
~ 12 Step Groups
