The ODAT Reading for today speaks about our tendency to dwell on past hurts and live in self pity and fear. The reading asks why do we continue to hurt ourselves in this manner? Is it because we have a hidden desire to suffer?.
The reading points out that living on past hurts only ruins our present moments and adds nothing to our life. It suggests that we ask ourselves to remember the things we worried about last year or were upset over to see if they are still an issue-- NO doubt most have been resolved.
Alanon offers the tools to free us from the past, if only we will pick them up and use them The Steps, Slogans, Sponsors and examining our motives all help to lead us on the journey of self discovery. We will find that these destructive tools are only covering our positive qualities of love, compassion, empathy,serenity and wisdom.
The quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson is fantastic meditation material :"Some of your hurts you have cured and the sharpest you' ve even endured but what torments of grief you've endured from griefs that never arrived"
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After reading this page many years ago I was determined to work the program even more diligently in order to stay in the present moment and in the day What a gift!!!
Lyne said
Aug 13, 2017
Thanks Betty for this reading and reminder, that when I hold onto past hurts I am just keeping the pain coming in. It gives power to someone else, and it is important to take it back. Nothing good will come of dwelling on past, negative issues, no matter how painful. It is an art to be able to let go and let God. I'm working on it! Lyne
Iamhere said
Aug 13, 2017
Thank you Betty for your service and the daily! Thank you also to you and Lyne for your ESH....
I know for me that living in the past is a dangerous place to be. It affects my today, my attitude, my outlook, my relationships and blocks me from the sunlight of the spirit. In recovery we learn to consider the past for current/future growth but to not dwell on it. It's already done and gone and nothing I think, feel, believe or judge about it will change it.
I am a firm believer that the only thing that stands between me and my growth/serenity is me....Make it a great day - full of more family, food and fun! (((Hugs))) to all...
bud said
Aug 13, 2017
Thank you - great post and what I needed to hear... working on getting out of my own way.
I know for me that living in the past is a dangerous place to be. It affects my today, my attitude, my outlook, my relationships and blocks me from the sunlight of the spirit. In recovery we learn to consider the past for current/future growth but to not dwell on it. It's already done and gone and nothing I think, feel, believe or judge about it will change it.
I am a firm believer that the only thing that stands between me and my growth/serenity is me....Make it a great day - full of more family, food and fun! (((Hugs))) to all...