The four “letters” (chemical bases) in what I call the genetic code of evolutionary integrity (or DNA of deep integrity) not only express the essence of recovery programs; they also comprise the heart of religious morality. This, of course, should not be surprising. Much that we are now learning scientifically was intuited long ago and has been rediscovered time and again, as the same process of testing and selection at work in nature also shapes culture. Here is the DNA of deep integrity:
1.TRUST/HUMILITY/FAITH: Surrendering to the wisdom of divine Wholeness—that undeniable physical and nonphysical Reality beyond thought, belief, or denial, which is at work in the world and to which each of us is ultimately accountable.
2.AUTHENTICITY/HONESTY/SINCERITY: Getting real with oneself and others, owning the painful truths about one’s life, and grasping the comforting truth that God loves us anyway. Then making commitments that will cultivate healthy habits and supports for living in integrity.
3.RESPONSIBILITY/ACCOUNTABILITY/COMPASSION: Stepping into the shoes of those we have harmed, and then making amends—while cultivating compassion for ourselves and others. Enlisting the support of others, too, as integrity is a team sport.
4.SERVICE/GENEROSITY/PURPOSE: Supporting others in maintaining integrity and providing lifegiving service in additional ways. In so doing, we not only bless the world, we support our own growth and fulfillment, while boosting our chances for long-term integrous living.
Genuine self-interest is thus served by cultivating evolutionary integrity in a four-fold way: growing in trust, authenticity, responsibility and grateful service. To the extent we are guided in ways that fulfill this standard, God guides us.