Even with a growing understanding of The Program and its Twelve Steps, we sometimes might find it difficult to believe that our new way of life leads to personal freedom. Suppose, for example, I feel imprisoned in an uncomfortable job or troublesome personal relationship. What am I doing about it? In the past, my reflex reaction was to try to manipulate the things and people around me into being more acceptable to me. Today, I realize that happiness can't be won that way.
Am I learning that freedom from despair and frustration can come only from changing, in myself, the attitudes that are perpetuating the conditions that cause me grief?
Today I Pray
May I be given clear eyes to see and then to stop myself when I am manipulating the lives of those around me, my daily associates, friends, and family. May I always be aware that change must begin within myself.
Oh Pappy. I am well acquainted with 2 of the horsemen mentioned above, despair and frustration and have also ridden with terror and bewilderment (BB, pg. 151.) Yesterday in a meeting someone said that 'there are 2 things an alcoholic hates - the way things are - and change.' My freedom has come from the changes I have made and the changes I am making now ('all I have to change is everything' - I know you've heard that one before.) Thank you for a timely medtation for my day! May you be blessed today!
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'The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.' -William Faulkner
Your line: 'there are 2 things an alcoholic hates - the way things are - and change.' is one I haven't heard before ... great truism ... I'm going to steal that one, I like it so much ... thanks ...
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'Those who leave everything in God's hand will eventually see God's hand in everything.'