All of them were trying to stop their compulsive behavior by controlling or eradicating their essential selves. This was the most counterproductive thing they could have done. There’s nothing to love about addiction, but it will not loosen its grip until addicts learn to act lovingly toward their essential selves. The true self becomes destructive only when it can’t endure what’s happening; when it’s being starved, tortured, and dragged away from your North Star. Aligning your life with your deepest sense of purpose is one of
