I just thought I'd post because it often comes up on this board that newcomers aren't sure what to do with the "Higher Power" idea if they don't believe in a god or gods. I often point out that I'm an atheist and my HP is the network of people, institutions, and beliefs that help support me and point me toward right action -- if I pay attention to the messages they are sending me -- and the way I connect with my HP on a daily basis is by nurturing my connections to those people, institutions and beliefs by seeing friends, going to meetings, reading recovery-oriented literature, etc. But I can't often think of concrete examples to pass along.
Anyway, I just had a good example happen! I hosted my book club last night, which means I usually buy wine right before people are expected to arrive, serve it, and then send home any unfinished bottles with a friend I've asked in advance to take it.
Well, people were getting ready to leave last night and I noticed there were a lot of half-unfinished glasses of wine around the room. I had the fleeting thought of, "I could finish off those glasses after everyone's gone!" I didn't think I would act on it, but still, always annoying. As I said goodbye to the last few guests, I turned around and one of my best friends had already collected all the glasses and was at the sink washing them (and even rinsing out the empty wine bottles) so I would not have to smell the wine smell. So thoughtful!
So there it was -- my Higher Power helping me out when I didn't even expect it. A big item to add to my gratitude list that night before bed!
Thank you! I never tought of it that way. I guess the point is to think outside yourself and realize that you do have support, even when you're down in the mire of me-me-me. It's easy to forget that we're surrounded by the power of the hoarde, which is a power greater than the one. And just like religious people say "god helps those who help themselves," you entreat yourself to the power of others by communicating your needs, concerns, and fears.
