12 Step

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Courage & Fears

Drop the Rock says “…courage is fear that’s said it’s prayers.”

I love that saying. Often I don’t even know I’m in fear, just feeling funky or uncomfortable. When I pause long enough to ask myself if how I feel might be related to a fear, I usually become enlightened. Then it’s simply a matter of saying, “Hey God, I realize I’m not feeling good ’cause I’m scared about this. You’re so good to me and have given me such a great life. I have faith that you will help me with this too. Thanks!”

Sounds silly but 9 out of 10 times, these simple words, when spoken aloud, actually make me feel a million times better. Which let’s me get back to loving my life. Hope you had an epic day!

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A Sense of Belonging

“The belonging I have always wanted I have found in AA. God is there. My sponsor is there. All the credit belongs to God.” – Big Book, p. 485

A sense of belonging that comes from the heart is a rare treasure I have access to through my sponsor, the fellowship, and my Higher Power. This shit is real magical, and I’m grateful to share it with you guys. ILML!

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Relying on Yesterday’s Program

“I can’t achieve the degree of health I want by using yesterday’s program. I’ve found if I’m not moving forward, I don’t just stand still; I go backwards.” – H4T p.46

I have experienced this as a result of complacency so many times, that’s I’ve become highly aware: when I’m uncomfortable it’s time to pick up literature, pray, meditate, call someone in the program, be of service, do step-work or get to a meeting. Today I have so many tools at my disposal. Staying in discomfort is simply ridiculous. Lately I’m lucky I’ve been working my program and loving my life. Hope you are too!

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Loving The Best

From page 19 in The Best of Bill it says “Let us always love the best in others – and never fear their worst”.

When I focus on what’s wrong with other people, they look worse, and I’m more miserable. The next time I do that, I’ll stop. Then I’ll focus on the good stuff. When I do that, everything gets better. That’s what I love about recovery, I don’t need to be upset for more than a few minutes each day when I use the tools. ILML

This is a great reminder that when I’m thinking other than loving thoughts about people, it means I’m in fear about something (usually fearing I’m not getting treated how I want to be).

Just because they did something that I disapprove of, doesn’t mean I need to focus on it, or fear it will happen again, or that the consequences of their behavior will hurt me. I’ve found for every character defect, there’s an opposite and opposing wonderful character trait. In fact, as my step-mom, a faithful Alanon always said, “Our defects are simply our assets out of balance”. So, rather than focusing on the defect, let me realize that they are just like me – a little out of balance every once in awhile. This allows me to move from resentment to compassion, opening up the door to see the good in everything. And when I do that, I realize once again, that indeed, ILML.