The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
Today's page describes the 12 Steps as a desperate person's shortcut to God, allowing us to access our good qualities and abilities. Though we may be aware that working the steps will bring relief from the confusion, fear, anger and self-pity we suffer from handling alcohol on our own, we don't always accept and use them.
The reading asks us to consider whether this may be because we are more comfortable in the position of martyr than we realize.
Today's Reminder: We need not suffer, for there is a more healthy, happy way to live. The spiritual philosophy of the 12 Steps can take us there, if we are willing to work and live them.
"I pray for the willingness to accept the difficult discipline of the Twelve Steps. Living with such a guide makes life increasingly worthwhile."
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I didn't begin working the steps right away after finding AlAnon, in fact wasn't sure I would formally work them. I found plenty of work to do on myself using program tools and slogans while I figured out a way to deal with Step 3.
I am so glad I kept coming back and took advantage of the guidance that the Steps provide, it truly has been a blessing. The 12 Steps really are a compact but complete spiritual program that adapts to fit anyone and everyone.
My life today is so very different than when I arrived, in many positive ways. I am truly grateful for the strength, guidance, and peace that I continue to find in the program and the 12 Steps
__________________
Paul
"...when we try to control others, we lose the ability to manage our own lives." - Paths to Recovery
Good morning Paul, what a great reading and inspiration!!! I love the fact that the ODAT points out that the Steps are a shortcut to God and when we incorporate them into our lives they allow us to uncover our hidden assets. We are then able to live a happy, joyful and courageous life. I know the reading does not paint an easy picture of practicing the Steps . It does acknowledge that working the steps is a difficult discipline, but so worthwhile.
I can attest to that fact because when I entered the rooms and read the steps and absorbed the meaning of the 12 th step which said:"Having had a spiritual awakening," I was determined to keep coming back in order to attain that goal. One day at a time, focused on myself and the program, using the slogans, meetings, and a sponsor. I am happy to say I have embraced the Steps and they have changed my life.
Thank you for your service and I pray you have a lovely day.
Good morning Paul and Betty - thanks to both for your ESH and shares. Thank you Paul for your service and the daily.
I know countless folks who've done recovery as a 2-Step program instead of a 12-Step program. The 2 chosen steps are 1 and 12. For them, if it gives them meaning in their life - that's awesome! I toyed with the steps at first mostly because I found relief just in going to meetings and finding support that allowed me to no longer suffer alone.
However, there came a point in time (not sure when) that was not enough. I started feeling hollow inside and not sure how to fill the void left behind when I stopped battling the disease. I then got serious about working the steps and with each effort, I found a new level of awareness, acceptance and action.
I (right, wrong or indifferent) take discomfort as a sign that I have some work to do. Each time I've hit a challenge and returned to the steps and program tools, I've handled it better than before. That gives me hope for dealing with life on life's terms and continued healing.
Make it a great day all - it's a rainy cold day here - going to my meeting @ noon and that may be it due to the crappy weather.....ready, ready and ... so ready for some sunshine!! (((Hugs)))
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Practice the PAUSE...Pause before judging. Pause before assuming. Pause before accusing. Pause whenever you are about to react harshly and you will avoid doing and saying things you will later regret. ~~~~ Lori Deschene
