Easier Said Than Done

Unfortunately, demanding authenticity

won't make it happen.

We seem to be living in a world

that is more and more duplicitous

and false as the days go by.

Dealing with entire groups of addicts

is a pretty sure way of coming into contact

with some of the most unscrupulous

and unsavory characters around.

The majority of people in 12 Steps may be dry,

but the rest of their routine is pure show.

Just because someone says they are

a good person, presents themselves as rehabilitated,

promotes themselves as compassionate,

has the pretense of selflessness, and

postures as a spiritual person, that

does not make it so.

When dealing with sociopaths, narcissists,

pathological liars, con men, and zealots,

that's especially true.

No matter how sincere they seem,

no matter how charming and convincing

they are, and no matter how hard they work it,

a lie is still a lie.

No matter how beautifully it's crafted.

Fakes get away with hurting folks

precisely because they are so good at

what they do.

But a flawed copy can never replace an original,

and a hustle can never stand in for the real thing.

Don't believe the hype;

of course a con man is going to tell you

he's honest and sincere.

I've never met one yet that announced they were

getting ready to fleece you.

***