It is such a pleasure to talk with sober people in recovery who bravely share their truth in stories of addiction. I was fortunate to spend time getting to know Jenny Teeters and learning about what inspires her to write. In her new book, Every Day is a New Day: A Story of Faith, Jenny Teeters walks us through the 12 steps using examples from her own life and how she applies each one in recovery. Her vulnerability in sharing her journey from rock bottom to redemption in the spirit of helping others creates relatability, which often leads to healing. Jenny is raw, real, and has a true servant’s heart.
12-Step Resource – Catholic in Recovery
The book is an easy, enjoyable read and jam-packed with nuggets of recovery wisdom steeped in faith. Along with the 12 steps, Jenny includes scripture. Her recovery is intertwined with her Catholic faith. After losing her job because of her alcoholism, Jenny spent time volunteering at her church and was introduced to Catholic in Recovery where she started attending and leading 12-step meetings and eventually became a speaker. This is a unique approach to recovery as it is for all addictions and combines the help of 12-step recovery and the sacramental love and mercy provided by the church.
In sobriety, Jenny was finally able to focus on accomplishing her goals, including becoming a published author. During our conversation, Jenny mentioned that journaling plays a significant part in her recovery. She often writes to her higher power, and she always allows time to meditate and listen so she can also write the response. Two-way communication is key and the essence of step 11. This also provided content for the book.
Insights on the Writing Process
I wanted to dig into Jenny’s process because so many of our Sober Curator contributors and followers are aspiring writers. The templates from The Book You Were Born to Write by Kelly Notaras helped her get organized, narrow the focus, and create the chapters. Working with a life coach helped her formulate the concept and provided the accountability needed to complete the pages. Listen to Every Day is a New Day- A Podcast with Jenny Teeters for more on her writing process.
One of the things I really enjoyed about Every Day is a New Day: A Story of Faith is that Jenny provides writing prompts throughout the book. These prompt readers to stop, reflect, and then write about how the content resonates and what memories and feelings are evoked. I also really appreciated the curated page of comprehensive 12-step resources at the end of the book.
The combination of scripture, 12 steps, honest sharing, and resources makes Every Day is a New Day a valuable introductory guide for anyone in recovery or struggling with addiction. It’s on Amazon for just $8.99 for Kindle and $12.99 for paperback, and well worth the read.
Sober Spotlight Interview: Jenny Teeters
The Sobees #QUITLIT Score: 4 out of 5
Sober Curator Insiders Tip: Jenny is working to create resources to help people become the best versions of themselves, especially people in recovery. Visit jennyteeters.com and sign up for Jenny’s free signature meditation. Watch this episode of her podcast for tips on becoming the best version of yourself.
Lightening Round with Jenny Teeters
Inspirational Recovery Song: I Came Here to Live, Trace Adkins
Recovery Podcast: Positive Sobriety Podcast
#QUITLIT: A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C
Favorite Quote: “The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek” – Joseph Campbell
Visit The Sober Curator’s Recovery Resources for more information and stories on recovery.
Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.
#QUITLIT is our curated list of addiction and recovery book reviews. All Sober Curator Contributors, from addiction and recovery memoirs to fiction and self-help, should be well-read. You can also find us on Goodreads here.
What’s on your nightstand? We want to hear about what you’re reading and the addiction and recovery books you can’t live without. Please email us at thesobercurator@gmail.com or fill out The Sober Curator Library Book Review Submission Form HERE.
In the mood to #ADDTOCART? Check out our curated list of #QUITLIT books in our Amazon Shop.
SOBER SPOTLIGHT: This section of our site highlights extraordinary people in recovery. Who is making a difference in your recovery community? If you know someone we should spotlight, please contact us at thesobercurator@gmail.com or DM us on social media.
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
