If you do not expect this, then the natural responses to the unwelcome return of thoughts are (1) demoralization (Oh no, not this again), (2) anger (I was sold a bill of goods, or Why me?), (3) fear (I must be really a sick or bad person), or (4) hopelessness (That method works for some people but not for me; it is hopeless for me). If you understand that this temporary return of thoughts tends to happen to everyone in recovery, then it is far easier to greet it as an opportunity to practice the attitudes and anti-avoidance skills that may have become rusty over time.
