Good Morning to All.
Part of my recovery is meditation and one little book I like is Keep It Simple.
Keep it simple
When a man points a finger at someone else, he should remember that three of his fingers are pointing at himself. -- Louis Nizer
It's so easy to blame others. Others are always making mistakes we can hide behind. That's what blame is--hiding. When we blame others for our mistakes, we're trying to hide our character defects.
It's nobody else's fault that we act the way we do. It's our fault. We're responsible for our actions.
And with help of our Higher Power, we can change. We can turn over our character defects.
But first, we have to know them. Then, we give up blaming others for our defects.
Over time, we're not afraid to learn about oursleves--even the parts we don't like--because we want to know ourselves better.
Prayer for the day
I pray for help in facing my character defects.
God Bless.....
Keep it simple
he!! is not to love anymore. --George Bernanos
Someone in an AA group said, "From the first day I started this program, I felt like I had died and gone to heaven." This person had walked into a room full of love. In recovery, we are spiritual people because we believe in love. We have faith in love.
Love is respect. Love is truth with kindness. Love it being willing to forgive and help others. Love is thinking about how our Higher Power wants us to act. Love is what we do best. We have turned our will and our life over to love.
Prayer for the day
I pray that I many love all parts of life. Higher Power, help me seek out love, not material things.
God bless.....
he!! is not to love anymore. --George Bernanos
Someone in an AA group said, "From the first day I started this program, I felt like I had died and gone to heaven." This person had walked into a room full of love. In recovery, we are spiritual people because we believe in love. We have faith in love.
Love is respect. Love is truth with kindness. Love it being willing to forgive and help others. Love is thinking about how our Higher Power wants us to act. Love is what we do best. We have turned our will and our life over to love.
Prayer for the day
I pray that I many love all parts of life. Higher Power, help me seek out love, not material things.
God bless.....
Keep it simple
The closest to perfection a person ever comes is when he fills out a job application form. -- Stanley J. Randall
Trying to be perfect gets us in trouble. Trying to be perfect means we're trying to control things. We may be trying to cover up something. Maybe we aren't facing our pain. Maybe we've hurt someone and we need to make amends.
We need to practice being human. Humans aren't perfect. In Step Six and Seven, we face our human limits and our short comings. We then start the lifelong job of letting them go. To accept our human limits leads us to our Higher Power. We see how we need a guide in life. Our Higher Power makes a perfect guide.
Prayer for the day
Higher Power, help me accept that I can't be perfect. Help me be a good human being.
Have a sober 24 God Bless.....
The closest to perfection a person ever comes is when he fills out a job application form. -- Stanley J. Randall
Trying to be perfect gets us in trouble. Trying to be perfect means we're trying to control things. We may be trying to cover up something. Maybe we aren't facing our pain. Maybe we've hurt someone and we need to make amends.
We need to practice being human. Humans aren't perfect. In Step Six and Seven, we face our human limits and our short comings. We then start the lifelong job of letting them go. To accept our human limits leads us to our Higher Power. We see how we need a guide in life. Our Higher Power makes a perfect guide.
Prayer for the day
Higher Power, help me accept that I can't be perfect. Help me be a good human being.
Have a sober 24 God Bless.....
~*~A.A. Thoughts For The Day~*~
Prayer
"The man said, 'The thing I do is to say
"God here I am and here are all my troubles.
I've made a mess of things and can't do anything about it.
You take me and all my troubles,
and do anything you want with me." '
I return to bed. It doesn't make sense. . .
I am in the bottom of hell.
And there a tremendous hope is born.
It might be true.
I tumble out of bed on my knees.
I know not what I say.
But slowly a great peace comes to me.
I feel lifted up. I believe in God.
I crawl back into bed and sleep like a child."
1976AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 504
^*^*^*^*^*
Thought to Consider . . .
Faith is not belief without proof;
it's trust without reservation.
*~*~*AACRONYMS*~*~*
A S A P = Always Say A Prayer
*~*~*~*~*^Just For Today!^*~*~*~*~*
Grace
STEP SIX: Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
"When men and women pour so much alcohol into themselves that they destroy their lives, they commit a most unnatural act....As they are humbled by the terrific beating administered by alcohol, the grace of God can enter them and expel their obsession."
c. 1952, Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions,
page 64
*~*~*~*~*^Daily Reflections^*~*~*~*~*
THE DETERMINATION OF OUR FOUNDERS
A year and six months later these three had succeeded with seven more.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 159
If it had not been for the fierce determination of our founders, A.A. would
have quickly faded like so many other so-called good causes. I look at the
hundreds of meetings weekly in the city where I live and I know A.A. is
available twenty-four hours a day. If I had had to hang on with nothing but
hope and a desire not to drink, experiencing rejection wherever I went, I
would have sought the easier, softer way and returned to my previous way of
life.
Copyright 1990 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS WORLD SERVICES, INC.
*~*~*~*~*^As Bill Sees It^*~*~*~*~*
Coping with Anger
Few people have been more victimized by resentments than have we alcoholics. A burst of temper could spoil a day, and a well-nursed grudge could make us miserably ineffective. Nor were we ever skillful in separating justified from unjustified anger. As we saw it, our wrath was always justified. Anger, that occasional luxury of more balanced people, could keep us on an emotional jag indefinitely. These "dry benders" often led straight to the bottle.
<<<>>>
Nothing pays of like restraint of tongue and pen. We must avoid
quick-tempered criticism, furious power-driven argument, sulking, and silent
scorn. These are emotional booby traps baited with pride and vengefulness.
When we are tempted by the bait, we should train ourselves to step back and
think. We can neither think nor act to good purpose until the habit of
self-restraint has become automatic.
TWELVE AND TWELVE - 1. P. 90 - 2. P. 91
*~*~*~*~*^ Big Book Quote ^*~*~*~*~*
"As we go through the day we pause, when agitated or doubtful, and
ask for the right thought or action."
~Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th Edition, Into Action, pg. 87
*~*~*~*^Twenty Four Hours A Day^*~*~*~*
A.A. Thought for the Day
You can prove to yourself that life is basically and
fundamentally an inner attitude. just try to remember
what troubled you most a week ago. You probably will find
it difficult to remember. Why then should you unduly worry
or fret over the problems that arise today? Your attitude
toward them can be changed by putting yourself and your
problems in God's hands and trusting Him to see that
everything will turn out all right, provided you are
trying to do the right thing. Your changed mental attitude
toward your problems relieves you of their burden and you
can face them without fear. Has my mental attitude changed?
Meditation for the Day
You cannot see the future. It's a blessing that you cannot.
You could not bear to know all the future. That is why God
only reveals it to you day by day. The first step each day
is to lay your will before God as an offering, ready for God
to do what is best for you. Be sure that, if you trust God,
what He does for you will be for the best. The second step
is to be confident that God is powerful enough to do anything
He wills, and that no miracle in human lives is impossible
with Him. Then leave the future to God.
Prayer for the Day
I pray that I may gladly leave my future in God's hands.
I pray that I may be confident that good things will happen,
as long as I am on the right path.
Prayer
"The man said, 'The thing I do is to say
"God here I am and here are all my troubles.
I've made a mess of things and can't do anything about it.
You take me and all my troubles,
and do anything you want with me." '
I return to bed. It doesn't make sense. . .
I am in the bottom of hell.
And there a tremendous hope is born.
It might be true.
I tumble out of bed on my knees.
I know not what I say.
But slowly a great peace comes to me.
I feel lifted up. I believe in God.
I crawl back into bed and sleep like a child."
1976AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 504
^*^*^*^*^*
Thought to Consider . . .
Faith is not belief without proof;
it's trust without reservation.
*~*~*AACRONYMS*~*~*
A S A P = Always Say A Prayer
*~*~*~*~*^Just For Today!^*~*~*~*~*
Grace
STEP SIX: Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
"When men and women pour so much alcohol into themselves that they destroy their lives, they commit a most unnatural act....As they are humbled by the terrific beating administered by alcohol, the grace of God can enter them and expel their obsession."
c. 1952, Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions,
page 64
*~*~*~*~*^Daily Reflections^*~*~*~*~*
THE DETERMINATION OF OUR FOUNDERS
A year and six months later these three had succeeded with seven more.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 159
If it had not been for the fierce determination of our founders, A.A. would
have quickly faded like so many other so-called good causes. I look at the
hundreds of meetings weekly in the city where I live and I know A.A. is
available twenty-four hours a day. If I had had to hang on with nothing but
hope and a desire not to drink, experiencing rejection wherever I went, I
would have sought the easier, softer way and returned to my previous way of
life.
Copyright 1990 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS WORLD SERVICES, INC.
*~*~*~*~*^As Bill Sees It^*~*~*~*~*
Coping with Anger
Few people have been more victimized by resentments than have we alcoholics. A burst of temper could spoil a day, and a well-nursed grudge could make us miserably ineffective. Nor were we ever skillful in separating justified from unjustified anger. As we saw it, our wrath was always justified. Anger, that occasional luxury of more balanced people, could keep us on an emotional jag indefinitely. These "dry benders" often led straight to the bottle.
<<<>>>
Nothing pays of like restraint of tongue and pen. We must avoid
quick-tempered criticism, furious power-driven argument, sulking, and silent
scorn. These are emotional booby traps baited with pride and vengefulness.
When we are tempted by the bait, we should train ourselves to step back and
think. We can neither think nor act to good purpose until the habit of
self-restraint has become automatic.
TWELVE AND TWELVE - 1. P. 90 - 2. P. 91
*~*~*~*~*^ Big Book Quote ^*~*~*~*~*
"As we go through the day we pause, when agitated or doubtful, and
ask for the right thought or action."
~Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th Edition, Into Action, pg. 87
*~*~*~*^Twenty Four Hours A Day^*~*~*~*
A.A. Thought for the Day
You can prove to yourself that life is basically and
fundamentally an inner attitude. just try to remember
what troubled you most a week ago. You probably will find
it difficult to remember. Why then should you unduly worry
or fret over the problems that arise today? Your attitude
toward them can be changed by putting yourself and your
problems in God's hands and trusting Him to see that
everything will turn out all right, provided you are
trying to do the right thing. Your changed mental attitude
toward your problems relieves you of their burden and you
can face them without fear. Has my mental attitude changed?
Meditation for the Day
You cannot see the future. It's a blessing that you cannot.
You could not bear to know all the future. That is why God
only reveals it to you day by day. The first step each day
is to lay your will before God as an offering, ready for God
to do what is best for you. Be sure that, if you trust God,
what He does for you will be for the best. The second step
is to be confident that God is powerful enough to do anything
He wills, and that no miracle in human lives is impossible
with Him. Then leave the future to God.
Prayer for the Day
I pray that I may gladly leave my future in God's hands.
I pray that I may be confident that good things will happen,
as long as I am on the right path.
Good morning to everyone.
Keep it simple
If you don't know where you are going, you'll probably end up somewhere else. --Lawrence J. Peter
The Twelve Steps are our plan for living. We must have a plan. Without one, we waste our energy. We react instead of think. This is what we did as an addict. We lived our lives as out-of-control people. This caused a lot of pain for us and those around us.
Recovery brings us the Twelve Steps, and each Step gives us direction and wisdom. Each Step builds on the progress we made from the Step before it. Sometimes we follow the plan well. Sometimes we think we can do it better on our own. Do I believe the Twelve Steps are a good plan of living?
Prayer for the day
Higher Power, You have shown me a new way of life, a plan for living. Thank you for leading me to the Twelve Steps. Help me follow them.
Let Go Let God ..............God Bless All
Keep it simple
If you don't know where you are going, you'll probably end up somewhere else. --Lawrence J. Peter
The Twelve Steps are our plan for living. We must have a plan. Without one, we waste our energy. We react instead of think. This is what we did as an addict. We lived our lives as out-of-control people. This caused a lot of pain for us and those around us.
Recovery brings us the Twelve Steps, and each Step gives us direction and wisdom. Each Step builds on the progress we made from the Step before it. Sometimes we follow the plan well. Sometimes we think we can do it better on our own. Do I believe the Twelve Steps are a good plan of living?
Prayer for the day
Higher Power, You have shown me a new way of life, a plan for living. Thank you for leading me to the Twelve Steps. Help me follow them.
Let Go Let God ..............God Bless All
From: Keep It Simple
Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.---Step Seven
In Step Six, we got ready to give up our shortcomings. In Step Seven, we ask God to remove them. There is one catch. We humbly as God to remove them.
Being humble means we remember who we are: human beings who need God's help. Being humble means not pretending we're God. We admit we need God's help. Being humble means seeing ourselves as we are. We're a small but important part of God's plan. We can change much, but only God can change some things about us. This is why we ask. Being humble is not a weakness, but a true strength.
Prayer for the Day
God, please remove my shortcomings.
Action for the Day
Throughout the day, I'll pray to God to remove my shortcomings.
Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.---Step Seven
In Step Six, we got ready to give up our shortcomings. In Step Seven, we ask God to remove them. There is one catch. We humbly as God to remove them.
Being humble means we remember who we are: human beings who need God's help. Being humble means not pretending we're God. We admit we need God's help. Being humble means seeing ourselves as we are. We're a small but important part of God's plan. We can change much, but only God can change some things about us. This is why we ask. Being humble is not a weakness, but a true strength.
Prayer for the Day
God, please remove my shortcomings.
Action for the Day
Throughout the day, I'll pray to God to remove my shortcomings.
Keep it simple
I never think of the future. It comes soon enough. --Albert Einstein
None of us know anything for sure about the future. We don't know if we'll be sober tomorrow. But we can be sure of this moment. We get sober by moments. Our sober moments then stretch into hours, days, and years.
Our program tells us to live in the present moment. This is because we can control this moment. We can't control the past or the future. We need to have a sens of control in our life. In our illness, we were out of control. This was because we wouldn't live from moment to moment.
Each moment is filled with as much life as we can handle. Each moment is filled with enough to keep us alive, interested, and growing!
Prayer for the day
Higher Power, help me find You in each moment.
God Bless...Have a great Day.
I never think of the future. It comes soon enough. --Albert Einstein
None of us know anything for sure about the future. We don't know if we'll be sober tomorrow. But we can be sure of this moment. We get sober by moments. Our sober moments then stretch into hours, days, and years.
Our program tells us to live in the present moment. This is because we can control this moment. We can't control the past or the future. We need to have a sens of control in our life. In our illness, we were out of control. This was because we wouldn't live from moment to moment.
Each moment is filled with as much life as we can handle. Each moment is filled with enough to keep us alive, interested, and growing!
Prayer for the day
Higher Power, help me find You in each moment.
God Bless...Have a great Day.
Keep it simple
I never think of the future. It comes soon enough. --Albert Einstein
None of us know anything for sure about the future. We don't know if we'll be sober tomorrow. But we can be sure of this moment. We get sober by moments. Our sober moments then stretch into hours, days, and years.
Our program tells us to live in the present moment. This is because we can control this moment. We can't control the past or the future. We need to have a sens of control in our life. In our illness, we were out of control. This was because we wouldn't live from moment to moment.
Each moment is filled with as much life as we can handle. Each moment is filled with enough to keep us alive, interested, and growing!
Prayer for the day
Higher Power, help me find You in each moment.
I never think of the future. It comes soon enough. --Albert Einstein
None of us know anything for sure about the future. We don't know if we'll be sober tomorrow. But we can be sure of this moment. We get sober by moments. Our sober moments then stretch into hours, days, and years.
Our program tells us to live in the present moment. This is because we can control this moment. We can't control the past or the future. We need to have a sens of control in our life. In our illness, we were out of control. This was because we wouldn't live from moment to moment.
Each moment is filled with as much life as we can handle. Each moment is filled with enough to keep us alive, interested, and growing!
Prayer for the day
Higher Power, help me find You in each moment.
It takes time, love, and support to find peace with the restless one.
--Deidra Sarault
Restlessness is born of frustration. Perhaps we want to move ahead with our lives more quickly. Does a job have us trapped? Do past troubles haunt us still? Maybe perfectionism tarnishes every attempt to achieve. We can learn from our restlessness, if we let it guide us to our inner reservoir of peace and spiritual support.
The search for serenity often takes us farther from it. We mistakenly think a different job or home or relationship will answer all our needs. But we find that our restlessness has accompanied us to our new surroundings. Peace has its home within. And prayer opens the door to it. In the stillness of our patience, we are privy to its blessing.
Restlessness indicates our distance from our higher power. It may be time for a change in our lives. Change is good; however, our relationship with God will vouchsafe any needed changes. Restlessness is self-centered and will only hamper the steps we may need to take.
Restlessness is a barometer that reveals my spiritual health. Perhaps prayer is called for today.
1982, 1991
--Deidra Sarault
Restlessness is born of frustration. Perhaps we want to move ahead with our lives more quickly. Does a job have us trapped? Do past troubles haunt us still? Maybe perfectionism tarnishes every attempt to achieve. We can learn from our restlessness, if we let it guide us to our inner reservoir of peace and spiritual support.
The search for serenity often takes us farther from it. We mistakenly think a different job or home or relationship will answer all our needs. But we find that our restlessness has accompanied us to our new surroundings. Peace has its home within. And prayer opens the door to it. In the stillness of our patience, we are privy to its blessing.
Restlessness indicates our distance from our higher power. It may be time for a change in our lives. Change is good; however, our relationship with God will vouchsafe any needed changes. Restlessness is self-centered and will only hamper the steps we may need to take.
Restlessness is a barometer that reveals my spiritual health. Perhaps prayer is called for today.
1982, 1991
Happy 4th of July!
July 4, 2005
Daily Reflections
A NATURAL FAITH
. . . deep down in every man, woman and child, is the fundamental idea
of God. It may be obscured by calamity, by pomp, by worship of other
things, but in some form or other it is there. For faith in a Power
greater than ourselves, and miraculous demonstrations of that power
in human lives, are facts as old as man himself.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 55
I have seen the workings of the unseen God in A.A. rooms around the
country. Miracles of recovery are everywhere in evidence. I now
believe that God is in these rooms and in my heart. Today faith is as
natural to me, a former agnostic, as breathing, eating and sleeping.
The Twelve Steps have helped to change my life in many ways, but none is
more effective than the acquisition of a Higher Power.
God Bless All have a great 24
July 4, 2005
Daily Reflections
A NATURAL FAITH
. . . deep down in every man, woman and child, is the fundamental idea
of God. It may be obscured by calamity, by pomp, by worship of other
things, but in some form or other it is there. For faith in a Power
greater than ourselves, and miraculous demonstrations of that power
in human lives, are facts as old as man himself.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 55
I have seen the workings of the unseen God in A.A. rooms around the
country. Miracles of recovery are everywhere in evidence. I now
believe that God is in these rooms and in my heart. Today faith is as
natural to me, a former agnostic, as breathing, eating and sleeping.
The Twelve Steps have helped to change my life in many ways, but none is
more effective than the acquisition of a Higher Power.
God Bless All have a great 24
Hi everyone.
Something I found hard to find TIME it's very elosive you have to make time if you want to find it.
Being alcoholic I always lived in the past I should have done this I should have done that poor me poor me poor me another drink. Or I was always living in the future sometimes up to 20 years in the future my son was only 4 and I was making plans on how we where going to celebrate his 21st birthday I had already brought the booze.No wonder I had trouble living in the day and taking care of what needed to be taken care of.
Through the program of AA I have learnt to live in the NOW = no other way.
And take time out.
TAKE TIME
The past has gone; the future has not come; the present is all we have. We cannot change the past, nor can we draw upon the future, but we can use the present. So, let us touch the philosopher's stone, for it is the foundation of successful living:
Take time to look -- it is the price of success.
Take time to think -- it is the source of power.
Take time to play -- it is the secret of perpetual youth.
Take time to read -- it is the fountain of wisdom.
Take time to pray -- it is the greatest power on earth.
Take time to love and be loved -- it is a God-given privilege.
Take time to be friendly -- it is the road to happiness.
Take time to laugh -- it is the music of the soul.
Take time to give -- it is too short a day to be selfish.
Take time to work -- it is the price of success.
Take time to do charity -- it is the key to heaven.
God Bless All...LionelC
Something I found hard to find TIME it's very elosive you have to make time if you want to find it.
Being alcoholic I always lived in the past I should have done this I should have done that poor me poor me poor me another drink. Or I was always living in the future sometimes up to 20 years in the future my son was only 4 and I was making plans on how we where going to celebrate his 21st birthday I had already brought the booze.No wonder I had trouble living in the day and taking care of what needed to be taken care of.
Through the program of AA I have learnt to live in the NOW = no other way.
And take time out.
TAKE TIME
The past has gone; the future has not come; the present is all we have. We cannot change the past, nor can we draw upon the future, but we can use the present. So, let us touch the philosopher's stone, for it is the foundation of successful living:
Take time to look -- it is the price of success.
Take time to think -- it is the source of power.
Take time to play -- it is the secret of perpetual youth.
Take time to read -- it is the fountain of wisdom.
Take time to pray -- it is the greatest power on earth.
Take time to love and be loved -- it is a God-given privilege.
Take time to be friendly -- it is the road to happiness.
Take time to laugh -- it is the music of the soul.
Take time to give -- it is too short a day to be selfish.
Take time to work -- it is the price of success.
Take time to do charity -- it is the key to heaven.
God Bless All...LionelC
Good morning to All.
Keep It Simple
Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood.---Marie Curie
We have many sides, some good, and some bad. Maybe we're afraid to see our faults. But we don't need to be afraid. After all, we need to know our dark side before we can change it. When we see ourselves clearly, we can stop our dark side from causing trouble.
When we shine light on our fears and secrets, we'll begin to feel better about ourselves. We'll feel more safe about sharing our worries. The more honest we are with ourselves and others, the better and stronger we become. The goodness and love in us will blossom. We have a Higher Power and a program to help us.
Prayer for the Day
Higher Power, help me be brave enough to see myself clearly. Gently teach me to see who I really am. Help me know enough to stay sober today.
Action for the Day
Today, I'll look myself in the eyes. I'll spend two minutes looking into my eyes in a mirror. I'll talk to my sponsor about what I see.
God Bless....LionelC
Keep It Simple
Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood.---Marie Curie
We have many sides, some good, and some bad. Maybe we're afraid to see our faults. But we don't need to be afraid. After all, we need to know our dark side before we can change it. When we see ourselves clearly, we can stop our dark side from causing trouble.
When we shine light on our fears and secrets, we'll begin to feel better about ourselves. We'll feel more safe about sharing our worries. The more honest we are with ourselves and others, the better and stronger we become. The goodness and love in us will blossom. We have a Higher Power and a program to help us.
Prayer for the Day
Higher Power, help me be brave enough to see myself clearly. Gently teach me to see who I really am. Help me know enough to stay sober today.
Action for the Day
Today, I'll look myself in the eyes. I'll spend two minutes looking into my eyes in a mirror. I'll talk to my sponsor about what I see.
God Bless....LionelC
As Bill Sees It
Money--Before and After, p. 177
In our drinking time, we acted as if the money supply were inexhaustible, though between binges we'd sometimes go to the other extreme and become miserly.
Without realizing it,we were just accumulating funds for the next spree.Money was the symbol of pleasure and self-importance. As our drinking became worse, money was only an urgent requirement which could supply us with the next drink and the temporary comfort of oblivion it brought.
Although financial recovery is on the way for many of us, we find we cannot place money first. For us, material well-being always follows spiritual progress; it never precedes.
1. 12 & 12, p. 120
2. Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 127
Daily Reflections
SURRENDER AND SELF-EXAMINATION
My stability came out of trying to give, not out of demanding that I receive. Thus I think it can work out with emotional sobriety. If we examine every disturbance we have, great or small, we will find at the root of it some unhealthy dependency and its consequent unhealthy demand. Let us, with God's help, continually surrender these hobbling demands. Then we can be set free to live and love; we may then be able to Twelfth Step ourselves and others into emotional sobriety.
THE LANGUAGE OF THE HEART, p. 238
Years of dependency on alcohol as a chemical mood-changer deprived me of the capability to interact emotionally with my fellows. I thought I had to be self-sufficient, self-reliant, and self-motivated in a world of unreliable people. Finally I lost my self-respect and was left with dependency, lacking any ability to trust myself or to believe in anything. Surrender and self-examination while sharing with newcomers helped me to ask humbly for help.
God Bless....
Money--Before and After, p. 177
In our drinking time, we acted as if the money supply were inexhaustible, though between binges we'd sometimes go to the other extreme and become miserly.
Without realizing it,we were just accumulating funds for the next spree.Money was the symbol of pleasure and self-importance. As our drinking became worse, money was only an urgent requirement which could supply us with the next drink and the temporary comfort of oblivion it brought.
Although financial recovery is on the way for many of us, we find we cannot place money first. For us, material well-being always follows spiritual progress; it never precedes.
1. 12 & 12, p. 120
2. Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 127
Daily Reflections
SURRENDER AND SELF-EXAMINATION
My stability came out of trying to give, not out of demanding that I receive. Thus I think it can work out with emotional sobriety. If we examine every disturbance we have, great or small, we will find at the root of it some unhealthy dependency and its consequent unhealthy demand. Let us, with God's help, continually surrender these hobbling demands. Then we can be set free to live and love; we may then be able to Twelfth Step ourselves and others into emotional sobriety.
THE LANGUAGE OF THE HEART, p. 238
Years of dependency on alcohol as a chemical mood-changer deprived me of the capability to interact emotionally with my fellows. I thought I had to be self-sufficient, self-reliant, and self-motivated in a world of unreliable people. Finally I lost my self-respect and was left with dependency, lacking any ability to trust myself or to believe in anything. Surrender and self-examination while sharing with newcomers helped me to ask humbly for help.
God Bless....
Good Morning to All What a great day to be Sober.
AA Thought for the Day
(courtesy AAOnline.net)
July 25, 2005
Spirituality
Spirituality is an awakening --or is it all the loose ends
woven together into a mellow fabric?
It's understanding --or is it all the knowledge one need ever know?
It's freedom -- if you consider fear slavery.
It's confidence -- or is it the belief that a higher power
will see you through any storm or gale?
It's adhering to the dictates of your conscience --or is it a deep, genuine, living concernfor the people and the planet?
It's peace of mind in the face of adversity.
It's a keen and sharpened desire for survival.
c. 1973 AAWS, Came To Believe. . , p. 5
With permission, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.
Thought to Ponder . . .
Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional,
growing spiritually is up to you.
AA-related 'Alconym' . . .
K I S S = Keeping It Simple, Spiritually.
One Day At A Time in Al-Anon
We hear and read, over and over again, that we are powerless over alcohol/drugs, and that the alcoholic's/addict's sobriety is not our business or our responsibility. It may seem paradoxical, then, to assert that we, the spouses, can have a tremendous influence in bringing about sobriety and helping the alcoholic/addict to maintain it.
When we continue to nag and domineer, complain and criticize, we are assuming, in large measure, the responsibility for deferred sobriety, and for slips from sobriety.
Al-Anon shows us how to change these destructive attitudes. As we abandon the role of accuser, judge, and manager, the home climate shows marked improvement. A pleasant, cheerful environment, which we can create, often creates in the alcoholic a desire to get sober.
Today's Reminder
Being powerless over alcohol and the alcoholic simply means that it cannot be done by forcing issues. A change in our attitude; on the other hand, has limitless power to bring serenity and order into the home.
"I am not powerless over myself, and the way I act and react. This is, in itself, a power that can work miracles in changing the attitudes of others."
Hope For Today
Growing up with two alcoholic parents, I learned to hide from them before the trouble started. By the time I was a teenager, I was trained to the point where I would disappear as soon as I heard the sound of an ice cube hitting the bottom of a glass.
Now years later, the urge to escape can come over me just as suddenly and irrationally. A slight misunderstanding or awkward silence between another person and me is enough to trigger my fear and cause me to run and hide in one way or another. Sometimes I hide in obvious ways, like not answering the phone. More often I hide simply by not saying what I really mean so I can avoid becoming the target of expected criticism.
Al-Anon taught me to think before I run away from a person, a conflict, or an opportunity to share from the heart. When I react in fear, I give power to the unhealthy part of myself that tells me it's not safe to be myself and that I'll never be able to change. Today my search for new solutions to old problems begins with either self-acceptance or change.
Thought for the Day
The Serenity Prayer reminds me that I can always count on my Higher Power for help when I make an effort to face my fears by using the tools of the program.
"I need courage to change my attitude and behavior. The Serenity Prayer can help me." --Alateen--a day at a time, p.247
_________________
AA gives us an opportunity to recreate ourselves, with God's help, one day at a time. --Rufus K.
"No matter what you have done to this moment, you get 24 brand-new hours to spend every single day." --Brian Tracy
God says that each of us is worth loving.
We stay sober together - one day at a time!
Have a sober24 God Bless Lionelc
AA Thought for the Day
(courtesy AAOnline.net)
July 25, 2005
Spirituality
Spirituality is an awakening --or is it all the loose ends
woven together into a mellow fabric?
It's understanding --or is it all the knowledge one need ever know?
It's freedom -- if you consider fear slavery.
It's confidence -- or is it the belief that a higher power
will see you through any storm or gale?
It's adhering to the dictates of your conscience --or is it a deep, genuine, living concernfor the people and the planet?
It's peace of mind in the face of adversity.
It's a keen and sharpened desire for survival.
c. 1973 AAWS, Came To Believe. . , p. 5
With permission, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.
Thought to Ponder . . .
Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional,
growing spiritually is up to you.
AA-related 'Alconym' . . .
K I S S = Keeping It Simple, Spiritually.
One Day At A Time in Al-Anon
We hear and read, over and over again, that we are powerless over alcohol/drugs, and that the alcoholic's/addict's sobriety is not our business or our responsibility. It may seem paradoxical, then, to assert that we, the spouses, can have a tremendous influence in bringing about sobriety and helping the alcoholic/addict to maintain it.
When we continue to nag and domineer, complain and criticize, we are assuming, in large measure, the responsibility for deferred sobriety, and for slips from sobriety.
Al-Anon shows us how to change these destructive attitudes. As we abandon the role of accuser, judge, and manager, the home climate shows marked improvement. A pleasant, cheerful environment, which we can create, often creates in the alcoholic a desire to get sober.
Today's Reminder
Being powerless over alcohol and the alcoholic simply means that it cannot be done by forcing issues. A change in our attitude; on the other hand, has limitless power to bring serenity and order into the home.
"I am not powerless over myself, and the way I act and react. This is, in itself, a power that can work miracles in changing the attitudes of others."
Hope For Today
Growing up with two alcoholic parents, I learned to hide from them before the trouble started. By the time I was a teenager, I was trained to the point where I would disappear as soon as I heard the sound of an ice cube hitting the bottom of a glass.
Now years later, the urge to escape can come over me just as suddenly and irrationally. A slight misunderstanding or awkward silence between another person and me is enough to trigger my fear and cause me to run and hide in one way or another. Sometimes I hide in obvious ways, like not answering the phone. More often I hide simply by not saying what I really mean so I can avoid becoming the target of expected criticism.
Al-Anon taught me to think before I run away from a person, a conflict, or an opportunity to share from the heart. When I react in fear, I give power to the unhealthy part of myself that tells me it's not safe to be myself and that I'll never be able to change. Today my search for new solutions to old problems begins with either self-acceptance or change.
Thought for the Day
The Serenity Prayer reminds me that I can always count on my Higher Power for help when I make an effort to face my fears by using the tools of the program.
"I need courage to change my attitude and behavior. The Serenity Prayer can help me." --Alateen--a day at a time, p.247
_________________
AA gives us an opportunity to recreate ourselves, with God's help, one day at a time. --Rufus K.
"No matter what you have done to this moment, you get 24 brand-new hours to spend every single day." --Brian Tracy
God says that each of us is worth loving.
We stay sober together - one day at a time!
Have a sober24 God Bless Lionelc
Hi,
thanks for sharing these...they do help alot!!!
take care
gina :)
thanks for sharing these...they do help alot!!!
take care
gina :)
Good morning to All what a great day to be sober.
AA Thought for the Day
(courtesy AAOnline.net)
July 26, 2005
Bacchus Boomeranged
Either we were shy, and dared not draw near others,
or we were apt to be noisy good fellows
craving attention and companionship,
but never really getting it -- at least to our way of thinking...
It was as if we were actors on a stage, suddenly realizing
we did not know a single line of our parts.
That's one reason we loved alcohol too well.
It did let us act extemporaneously.
But even Bacchus boomeranged on us;
we were finally struck down and left in terrified loneliness...
Step Five was the answer.
It was the beginning of true kinship with man and God.
c. 1953 AAWS, Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, p. 57
With permission, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.
Thought to Ponder . . .
Life leaps like a geyser
for those willing to drill through the rock of inertia.
AA-related 'Alconym' . . .
A A = Altered Attitudes.
Touchstones.
The lust for power is not rooted in strength but in weakness. --Erich Fromm
Many of us have felt so insecure, so poor, or so much the underdog that we made a fervent promise to ourselves that we'd come out on top later. We know how weak we felt, and that image continues to be our guiding force long after the weakness was overcome. We may have spiritual problems because we are blind to the reality of our present life. While grasping for more security, more love, more money, or trying to lose more weight or attract more friends, we fail to stop and realize the real rewards we already have today. We are driven by the memory of pain and insecurity, rather than rising above it and relating to the higher principles and people around us. Getting more control or more achievements does not solve our spiritual problems, but by making peace with the fact that life is insecure.
Today, I will let go of my grasping for more. I will let go of it again and again throughout the day so I am not ruled by this weakness.
Each Day a New Beginning.
We want the facts to fit the preconceptions. When they don't, it is easier to ignore the facts than to change the preconceptions. --Jessamyn West
To live fully and creatively, to contribute what is only ours to give, requires that we be receptive, wholly, to the reverberations of each present moment. Even anticipation of what may transpire next can prejudice our minds, our level of awareness. Preconceptions cloud our senses. They prevent the actual situation from being fully realized. And it is only in the now, as sensed moment by moment, that we find our cues to proceed along the path chosen for us.
As we grow more comfortable with Step Three, daily turning our lives and wills over to the care of God, we'll see how much more rewarding our experiences are. We'll see, too, how much greater are our own contributions. Preconceptions of any situation, persons, anticipated experience, dulls the magic, the depth of the moment. And only when we attune ourselves to the invitation of the moment do we give of ourselves, wholly. Our partnership with God lives now, as we go forth in this moment.
I will look to each moment with childish eyes. I'll find joy and contentment.
Have a great24 God Bless Lionelc
AA Thought for the Day
(courtesy AAOnline.net)
July 26, 2005
Bacchus Boomeranged
Either we were shy, and dared not draw near others,
or we were apt to be noisy good fellows
craving attention and companionship,
but never really getting it -- at least to our way of thinking...
It was as if we were actors on a stage, suddenly realizing
we did not know a single line of our parts.
That's one reason we loved alcohol too well.
It did let us act extemporaneously.
But even Bacchus boomeranged on us;
we were finally struck down and left in terrified loneliness...
Step Five was the answer.
It was the beginning of true kinship with man and God.
c. 1953 AAWS, Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, p. 57
With permission, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.
Thought to Ponder . . .
Life leaps like a geyser
for those willing to drill through the rock of inertia.
AA-related 'Alconym' . . .
A A = Altered Attitudes.
Touchstones.
The lust for power is not rooted in strength but in weakness. --Erich Fromm
Many of us have felt so insecure, so poor, or so much the underdog that we made a fervent promise to ourselves that we'd come out on top later. We know how weak we felt, and that image continues to be our guiding force long after the weakness was overcome. We may have spiritual problems because we are blind to the reality of our present life. While grasping for more security, more love, more money, or trying to lose more weight or attract more friends, we fail to stop and realize the real rewards we already have today. We are driven by the memory of pain and insecurity, rather than rising above it and relating to the higher principles and people around us. Getting more control or more achievements does not solve our spiritual problems, but by making peace with the fact that life is insecure.
Today, I will let go of my grasping for more. I will let go of it again and again throughout the day so I am not ruled by this weakness.
Each Day a New Beginning.
We want the facts to fit the preconceptions. When they don't, it is easier to ignore the facts than to change the preconceptions. --Jessamyn West
To live fully and creatively, to contribute what is only ours to give, requires that we be receptive, wholly, to the reverberations of each present moment. Even anticipation of what may transpire next can prejudice our minds, our level of awareness. Preconceptions cloud our senses. They prevent the actual situation from being fully realized. And it is only in the now, as sensed moment by moment, that we find our cues to proceed along the path chosen for us.
As we grow more comfortable with Step Three, daily turning our lives and wills over to the care of God, we'll see how much more rewarding our experiences are. We'll see, too, how much greater are our own contributions. Preconceptions of any situation, persons, anticipated experience, dulls the magic, the depth of the moment. And only when we attune ourselves to the invitation of the moment do we give of ourselves, wholly. Our partnership with God lives now, as we go forth in this moment.
I will look to each moment with childish eyes. I'll find joy and contentment.
Have a great24 God Bless Lionelc
~*~A.A. Thoughts For The Day~*~
Trouble
"There was a time when we ignored trouble,
hoping it would go away.
Or, in fear and depression, we ran from it,
but found it was still with us.
Often, full of unreason, bitterness, and blame,
we fought back.
These mistaken attitudes, powered by alcohol,
guaranteed our destruction,
unless they were altered. . .
Then came AA.
Surprisingly, we found that our troubles could,
under God's grace,
be converted into unimaginable blessings."
Bill W., Letter, 1966
1967AAWS, As Bill Sees It, p. 110
Thought to Consider . . .
The peaks and valleys of my life
have become gentle rolling hills.
*~*~*AACRONYMS*~*~*
S O B E R = Son Of a Basket, Everything's Real
Just For Today
Equals
"In A.A., no one is 'above' or 'below' anyone
else. There are no classes or strata or hierarchies
among the members. There are no formal
officers with any governing power or authority
whatsoever. A.A. is not an organization in the
usual sense of that word. Instead, it is a fellowship
of equals. Everybody calls everybody else by
first name. A.A.'s take turns doing the services
needed for group meetings and other functions."
c. 1998, Living Sober, page 15
Daily Reflections
THOSE WHO STILL SUFFER
Let us resist the proud assumption that since God has enabled
us to do well in one area we are destined to be a channel of
saving grace for everybody.
A.A. COMES OF AGE, p. 232
A. A. groups exist to help alcoholics achieve sobriety. Large
or small, firmly established or brand-new, speaker,
discussion or study group has but one reason for being: to
carry the message to the still-suffering alcoholic. The group
exists so that the alcoholic can find a new way of life, a
life abundant in happiness, joy, and freedom. To recover,
most alcoholics need the support of a group of other
alcoholics who share their experience, strength and hope.
Thus my sobriety, and our program's survival, depend on my
determination to put first things first
Copyright 1990 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS WORLD SERVICES, INC.
As Bill Sees It
Never the Same Again
It was discovered that when one alcoholic had planted in the mind of another
the true nature of his malady, that person could never be the same again.
Following every spree, he would say to himself, "Maybe those A.A.'s were
right." After a few such experiences, often before the onset of extreme
difficulties, he would return to us convinced.
In the first years, those of us who sobered up in A.A. had been grim and
utterly hopeless cases. But then we began to have success with milder
alcoholics and even some potential alcoholics. Younger folks appeared. Lots
of people turned up who still had jobs, homes, health, and even good social
standing.
Of course, it was necessary for these newcomers to hit bottom emotionally.
But they did not have to hit every possible bottom in order to admit that
they were licked.
1. TWELVE AND TWELVE, pp. 23-24 - 2. A.A. COMES OF AGE, p. 199
Big Book Quote
Good judgement will suggest that we ought to take our time in making amends to our families. It may be unwise at first to rehash certain harrowing episodes. While we may be quite willing to reveal the very worst, we must be sure to remember that we cannot buy our own peace of mind at the expense of others.
Twenty Four Hours A Day
A.A. Thought for the Day
To continue the paraphrase of the psalm: "The judgments of
the Twelve Steps are true and righteous altogether. More to
be desired are they than whiskey, yea, than much fine whiskey,
sweeter also than wine. Moreover, by them are alcoholics
warned and in keeping of them there is great reward. Who can
understand our alcoholism? Cleanse us from secret faults. Keep
us from presumptuous resentments. Let them not have dominion
over us. Then shall we be upright and free of the great
transgression." Am I resolved that liquor will never again
have dominion over me?
Meditation for the Day
God can be your shield. Then no problems of the world can harm
you. Between you and all scorn and indignity from others is your
trust in God, like a shining shield. Nothing can th en have the
power to spoil your inward peace. With this shield, you can
attain this inward peace quickly, in your surroundings as well
as in your heart. With this inward peace, you do not need to
resent the person who troubles you. Instead, you can overcome
the resentment in your own mind which may have been aroused by
that person.
Prayer for the Day
I pray that I may strive for inward peace. I pray that I may not
be seriously upset, no matter what happens around me.
Trouble
"There was a time when we ignored trouble,
hoping it would go away.
Or, in fear and depression, we ran from it,
but found it was still with us.
Often, full of unreason, bitterness, and blame,
we fought back.
These mistaken attitudes, powered by alcohol,
guaranteed our destruction,
unless they were altered. . .
Then came AA.
Surprisingly, we found that our troubles could,
under God's grace,
be converted into unimaginable blessings."
Bill W., Letter, 1966
1967AAWS, As Bill Sees It, p. 110
Thought to Consider . . .
The peaks and valleys of my life
have become gentle rolling hills.
*~*~*AACRONYMS*~*~*
S O B E R = Son Of a Basket, Everything's Real
Just For Today
Equals
"In A.A., no one is 'above' or 'below' anyone
else. There are no classes or strata or hierarchies
among the members. There are no formal
officers with any governing power or authority
whatsoever. A.A. is not an organization in the
usual sense of that word. Instead, it is a fellowship
of equals. Everybody calls everybody else by
first name. A.A.'s take turns doing the services
needed for group meetings and other functions."
c. 1998, Living Sober, page 15
Daily Reflections
THOSE WHO STILL SUFFER
Let us resist the proud assumption that since God has enabled
us to do well in one area we are destined to be a channel of
saving grace for everybody.
A.A. COMES OF AGE, p. 232
A. A. groups exist to help alcoholics achieve sobriety. Large
or small, firmly established or brand-new, speaker,
discussion or study group has but one reason for being: to
carry the message to the still-suffering alcoholic. The group
exists so that the alcoholic can find a new way of life, a
life abundant in happiness, joy, and freedom. To recover,
most alcoholics need the support of a group of other
alcoholics who share their experience, strength and hope.
Thus my sobriety, and our program's survival, depend on my
determination to put first things first
Copyright 1990 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS WORLD SERVICES, INC.
As Bill Sees It
Never the Same Again
It was discovered that when one alcoholic had planted in the mind of another
the true nature of his malady, that person could never be the same again.
Following every spree, he would say to himself, "Maybe those A.A.'s were
right." After a few such experiences, often before the onset of extreme
difficulties, he would return to us convinced.
In the first years, those of us who sobered up in A.A. had been grim and
utterly hopeless cases. But then we began to have success with milder
alcoholics and even some potential alcoholics. Younger folks appeared. Lots
of people turned up who still had jobs, homes, health, and even good social
standing.
Of course, it was necessary for these newcomers to hit bottom emotionally.
But they did not have to hit every possible bottom in order to admit that
they were licked.
1. TWELVE AND TWELVE, pp. 23-24 - 2. A.A. COMES OF AGE, p. 199
Big Book Quote
Good judgement will suggest that we ought to take our time in making amends to our families. It may be unwise at first to rehash certain harrowing episodes. While we may be quite willing to reveal the very worst, we must be sure to remember that we cannot buy our own peace of mind at the expense of others.
Twenty Four Hours A Day
A.A. Thought for the Day
To continue the paraphrase of the psalm: "The judgments of
the Twelve Steps are true and righteous altogether. More to
be desired are they than whiskey, yea, than much fine whiskey,
sweeter also than wine. Moreover, by them are alcoholics
warned and in keeping of them there is great reward. Who can
understand our alcoholism? Cleanse us from secret faults. Keep
us from presumptuous resentments. Let them not have dominion
over us. Then shall we be upright and free of the great
transgression." Am I resolved that liquor will never again
have dominion over me?
Meditation for the Day
God can be your shield. Then no problems of the world can harm
you. Between you and all scorn and indignity from others is your
trust in God, like a shining shield. Nothing can th en have the
power to spoil your inward peace. With this shield, you can
attain this inward peace quickly, in your surroundings as well
as in your heart. With this inward peace, you do not need to
resent the person who troubles you. Instead, you can overcome
the resentment in your own mind which may have been aroused by
that person.
Prayer for the Day
I pray that I may strive for inward peace. I pray that I may not
be seriously upset, no matter what happens around me.
Good morning to all .What a great day to be Sober
Daily Reflections
TO BE OF SERVICE
Our real purpose is to fit ourselves to be of maximum service to God
and the people about us.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 77
It is clear that God's plan for me is expressed through love. God loved
me enough to take me from alleys and jails so that I could be made a
useful participant in His world. My response is to love all of His
children through service and by example. I ask God to help me imitate
His love for me through my love for others.
Twenty-Four Hours A Day
A.A. Thought For The Day
We in A.A. must remember that we are offering something intangibl
We are offering a psychological and spiritual program. We are not
offering a medical program. If people need medical treatment, we call
in a doctor. If they need a medical prescription, we let the doctor
prescribe for them. If they need hospital treatment, we let the hospital
take care of them. Our vital A.A. work begins when a person is
physically able to receive it. Am I willing to leave medical care to the
doctors?
Meditation For The Day
Each moment of your day which you devote to this new way of life is a
gift to God. The gift of the moments. Even when your desire to serve
God is sincere, it is not an easy thing to give Him many of these
moments: the daily things you had planned to do, given up gladly so
that you can perform a good service or say a kind word. If you can see
Gods purpose in many situations, it will be easier to give Him many
moments of your day. Every situation has two interpretations -- your
own and God's. Try to handle each situation in the way you believe
God would have it handled.
Prayer For The Day
I pray that I may make my day count somewhat for God. I pray that I
may not spend it all selfishly.
As Bill Sees It
Whos Inventory? p. 161
We do not relate intimate experiences of another member unless we are sure he would
approve. We find it better, when possible, to stick to our own stories. A man may
criticize or laugh at himself and it will affect others favourably, but criticism or ridicule
aimed at someone else often produces the contrary effect.
A continuous look at our assets and liabilities, and a real desire to learn and grow by
this means are necessities for us. We alcoholics have learned this the hard way.
More experienced people, of course, in all times and places have practiced unsparing
self-survey and criticism.
1. Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 125
2. 12 & 12, p. 88
Daily Reflections
TO BE OF SERVICE
Our real purpose is to fit ourselves to be of maximum service to God
and the people about us.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 77
It is clear that God's plan for me is expressed through love. God loved
me enough to take me from alleys and jails so that I could be made a
useful participant in His world. My response is to love all of His
children through service and by example. I ask God to help me imitate
His love for me through my love for others.
Twenty-Four Hours A Day
A.A. Thought For The Day
We in A.A. must remember that we are offering something intangibl
We are offering a psychological and spiritual program. We are not
offering a medical program. If people need medical treatment, we call
in a doctor. If they need a medical prescription, we let the doctor
prescribe for them. If they need hospital treatment, we let the hospital
take care of them. Our vital A.A. work begins when a person is
physically able to receive it. Am I willing to leave medical care to the
doctors?
Meditation For The Day
Each moment of your day which you devote to this new way of life is a
gift to God. The gift of the moments. Even when your desire to serve
God is sincere, it is not an easy thing to give Him many of these
moments: the daily things you had planned to do, given up gladly so
that you can perform a good service or say a kind word. If you can see
Gods purpose in many situations, it will be easier to give Him many
moments of your day. Every situation has two interpretations -- your
own and God's. Try to handle each situation in the way you believe
God would have it handled.
Prayer For The Day
I pray that I may make my day count somewhat for God. I pray that I
may not spend it all selfishly.
As Bill Sees It
Whos Inventory? p. 161
We do not relate intimate experiences of another member unless we are sure he would
approve. We find it better, when possible, to stick to our own stories. A man may
criticize or laugh at himself and it will affect others favourably, but criticism or ridicule
aimed at someone else often produces the contrary effect.
A continuous look at our assets and liabilities, and a real desire to learn and grow by
this means are necessities for us. We alcoholics have learned this the hard way.
More experienced people, of course, in all times and places have practiced unsparing
self-survey and criticism.
1. Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 125
2. 12 & 12, p. 88
Good morning to all.What a great day to be sober.
For the Lady's on line.
We're only as sick as the secrets we keep.
--Sue Atchley Ebaugh
Harboring parts of our inner selves, fearing what others would think if they knew, creates the barriers that keep us separate, feeling different, certain of our inadequacies.
Secrets are burdens, and they weigh heavily on us, so heavily. Carrying secrets makes impossible the attainment of serenity--that which we strive for daily. Abstinence alone is not enough. It must come first, but it's not enough by itself. It can't guarantee that we'll find the serenity we seek.
This program of recovery offers self-assurance, happiness, spiritual well-being, but there's work to be done. Many steps to be taken. And one of these is total self-disclosure. It's risky, it's humbling, and it's necessary.
When we tell others who we really are, it opens the door for them to share likewise. And when they do, we become bonded. We accept their imperfections and love them for them. And they love us for ours. Our struggles to be perfect, our self-denigration because we aren't, only exaggerates even more the secrets that keep us sick.
Our tarnished selves are lovable; secrets are great equalizers when shared. We need to feel our oneness, our sameness with other women.
Opportunities to share my secrets will present themselves today. I will be courageous.
God Bless
For the Lady's on line.
We're only as sick as the secrets we keep.
--Sue Atchley Ebaugh
Harboring parts of our inner selves, fearing what others would think if they knew, creates the barriers that keep us separate, feeling different, certain of our inadequacies.
Secrets are burdens, and they weigh heavily on us, so heavily. Carrying secrets makes impossible the attainment of serenity--that which we strive for daily. Abstinence alone is not enough. It must come first, but it's not enough by itself. It can't guarantee that we'll find the serenity we seek.
This program of recovery offers self-assurance, happiness, spiritual well-being, but there's work to be done. Many steps to be taken. And one of these is total self-disclosure. It's risky, it's humbling, and it's necessary.
When we tell others who we really are, it opens the door for them to share likewise. And when they do, we become bonded. We accept their imperfections and love them for them. And they love us for ours. Our struggles to be perfect, our self-denigration because we aren't, only exaggerates even more the secrets that keep us sick.
Our tarnished selves are lovable; secrets are great equalizers when shared. We need to feel our oneness, our sameness with other women.
Opportunities to share my secrets will present themselves today. I will be courageous.
God Bless
Good morning to all.
Keep It Simple
Adventure is not outside a man; it is within.---David Grayson
Sobriety. It's an exciting adventure. It's a spiritual adventure. We look inward. We find where our Higher Power lives: within us. We then reach outward. We share our joy with others. Not with words and preaching, but by trying to help others. Sobriety is faith turned into action.
Sobriety. It's an adventure in coming to know one's self. At times, we'll have to face our fears. But we'll also find just how much love we have for life.
Sobriety. It's as if we're on a trip. Our Higher Power holds the map. Our job is to listen. And we go in the direction we're told.
Prayer for the Day
I pray to be an adventurer. Higher Power, I pray to follow Your direction.
Action for the Day
I'll ask some friends to tell me about an adventure their Higher Power has taken them on.
Daily Reflections
A "DESIGN FOR LIVING"
We in our turn, sought the same escape with all the
desperation of drowning men. What seemed at first a
flimsy reed, has proved to be the loving and powerful
hand of God. A new life has been given us or, if you
prefer, "a design for living" that really works.
ALCOHOLIC ANONYMOUS , p. 28
I try each day to raise my heart and hands in thanks
to God for showing me a "design for living" that really
works through our beautiful Fellowship. But what,
exactly, is this "design for living" that "really
works"? For me, it is the practice of the Twelve Steps
to the best of my ability, the continued awareness of
a God who loves me unconditionally, and the hope that,
in each new day, there is a purpose for my being. I
am truly, truly blessed in the Fellowship.
Courage to Change ODAAT In Al-Anon II
In Step Six I contemplate my life undegoing change---tremendous change. The great fear is this: If I shed many characteristics that stand in my way, what will be left? It is as though I face a great void, a terrifying unknown. Yet when I acknowledge how far I have come, I can see how much I want to change. The desire to grow and to heal has brought me to this uncomfortable point, because I am tired of the way I have been. My Higher Power is there to guide me when I am ready.
I find solace in the fact that in Step Six I need not change anything; I must simply prepare myself for change. I can take all the time I need. Such manageability is what I set out to find in the first place. Now it is a part of my life.
Today's Reminder
I need not judge the rate at which I change old habits or ways of thinking. If I am uncomfortable with old behavior, then on some level I am already moving toward changing it. Change will not be effective unless I am ready for it. I need only trust that, when the time comes to move forward, I will know it.
"Remind me each day that the race is not always to the swift; that there is more to life than increasing its speed. Let me look upward into the towering oak and know that it grew great and strong because it grew slowly and well." Orin L Crain
One Day At A Time in Al-Anon
We hear it said that Al-Anon members do not give each other advice. This refers specifically to the kind of advice that suggests taking drastic action to bring about a radical change in a marriage relationship. This we do not---and must not---do.
In other ways, we in Al-Anon give a great deal of advice. We suggest looking into ourselves for the causes of our problems; we advise dependence on God's guidance. We recommend lots of Al-Anon reading, the study of the Twelve Steps and the Slogans. We suggest spiritual ways to find a new perspective and new strength, and share our personal experience in applying them.
Today's Reminder
When I am greatly troubles by an insoluble problem, I will gladly accept the advice of my fellow members that I concentrate on a Slogan or a Step in finding a solution. I know that constructive action can be taken only after I have lifted my thoughts and emotions out of their confused state.
Using the Slogans and the Twelve Steps will strengthen me to make wise decisions.
Have a sober24 God Bless Lionel
Keep It Simple
Adventure is not outside a man; it is within.---David Grayson
Sobriety. It's an exciting adventure. It's a spiritual adventure. We look inward. We find where our Higher Power lives: within us. We then reach outward. We share our joy with others. Not with words and preaching, but by trying to help others. Sobriety is faith turned into action.
Sobriety. It's an adventure in coming to know one's self. At times, we'll have to face our fears. But we'll also find just how much love we have for life.
Sobriety. It's as if we're on a trip. Our Higher Power holds the map. Our job is to listen. And we go in the direction we're told.
Prayer for the Day
I pray to be an adventurer. Higher Power, I pray to follow Your direction.
Action for the Day
I'll ask some friends to tell me about an adventure their Higher Power has taken them on.
Daily Reflections
A "DESIGN FOR LIVING"
We in our turn, sought the same escape with all the
desperation of drowning men. What seemed at first a
flimsy reed, has proved to be the loving and powerful
hand of God. A new life has been given us or, if you
prefer, "a design for living" that really works.
ALCOHOLIC ANONYMOUS , p. 28
I try each day to raise my heart and hands in thanks
to God for showing me a "design for living" that really
works through our beautiful Fellowship. But what,
exactly, is this "design for living" that "really
works"? For me, it is the practice of the Twelve Steps
to the best of my ability, the continued awareness of
a God who loves me unconditionally, and the hope that,
in each new day, there is a purpose for my being. I
am truly, truly blessed in the Fellowship.
Courage to Change ODAAT In Al-Anon II
In Step Six I contemplate my life undegoing change---tremendous change. The great fear is this: If I shed many characteristics that stand in my way, what will be left? It is as though I face a great void, a terrifying unknown. Yet when I acknowledge how far I have come, I can see how much I want to change. The desire to grow and to heal has brought me to this uncomfortable point, because I am tired of the way I have been. My Higher Power is there to guide me when I am ready.
I find solace in the fact that in Step Six I need not change anything; I must simply prepare myself for change. I can take all the time I need. Such manageability is what I set out to find in the first place. Now it is a part of my life.
Today's Reminder
I need not judge the rate at which I change old habits or ways of thinking. If I am uncomfortable with old behavior, then on some level I am already moving toward changing it. Change will not be effective unless I am ready for it. I need only trust that, when the time comes to move forward, I will know it.
"Remind me each day that the race is not always to the swift; that there is more to life than increasing its speed. Let me look upward into the towering oak and know that it grew great and strong because it grew slowly and well." Orin L Crain
One Day At A Time in Al-Anon
We hear it said that Al-Anon members do not give each other advice. This refers specifically to the kind of advice that suggests taking drastic action to bring about a radical change in a marriage relationship. This we do not---and must not---do.
In other ways, we in Al-Anon give a great deal of advice. We suggest looking into ourselves for the causes of our problems; we advise dependence on God's guidance. We recommend lots of Al-Anon reading, the study of the Twelve Steps and the Slogans. We suggest spiritual ways to find a new perspective and new strength, and share our personal experience in applying them.
Today's Reminder
When I am greatly troubles by an insoluble problem, I will gladly accept the advice of my fellow members that I concentrate on a Slogan or a Step in finding a solution. I know that constructive action can be taken only after I have lifted my thoughts and emotions out of their confused state.
Using the Slogans and the Twelve Steps will strengthen me to make wise decisions.
Have a sober24 God Bless Lionel
