This is a poem I wrote when I decided I was ready to start working the STEPS.

What if today I started a new chapter? A new beginning.

What if I found myself with no one to fix?  

What if I decided to take control over my life and not yours.

What if I realized my loneliness was because I didn’t feel needed anymore?

What if my heart, mind and soul finally admitted that I was truly codependent. 

What if my heart was pounding now, really pounding.

What if I had allowed myself to accept the things I cannot change and realized that I will need the wisdom from my God to know the difference.

What if I didn’t have to be perfect?

What if I learned that I was in the right place at the right time.  A place with people who have an understanding like I do.  

What if I decided to work the steps, for me and no one else.

I am like a brand new colt. My legs are weak and wobbly. 

My desire to stand is strong and hopeful. I think I’m going to try it.  

Yes, it’s time to invest in me this time, I am ready to stand.

Jan R - 6/16/21

Everybody in CoDA has a story to tell. Sharing yours may help thousands of codependents still suffering. We are always accepting submissions. Please contribute your experience, strength and hope by emailing your story to wr@coda.org.