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 reading in Hope for Today is about the difference between Step 11, to pray "only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out" and the praying for God to allow our own wants and what we think we need, through OUR will, to be carried out. This is a great reminder for me. I have heard people say that they know their will is getting in the way when they feel anxious or unsettled. I know for myself I tend to get feelings that are a bit more frantic when I am trying to push my own will forward and am not truly praying for knowledge of God's will.
The analogy in the reading was of a dog who is begging to be let out; although the owner can see how much the dog wants to be outside, she also knows that there is construction nearby and it is for the safety and protection of the dog that the owner is not allowing it. I know there have been many situations in my life when I have felt longing, thinking I knew this was what I really needed in my life, why wasn't it happening?? I am learning when I feel this way to pray 'there must be some part of a bigger plan for me where this just does not make sense' or ' I have faith that You know better for me than I do'.
The Thought for the Day asks 'How many times do I have to be hurt by self-will before I'm willing to seek another way?'. It is a great reminder for me that I do not always have my own best interests in mind because I can only see part of the picture. It's a good practice for me and my ego to remember that my HP is watching out for me and I do not need to force any solutions.
Thanks, Mary, for sharing this powerful reflection on Step 11. I know that prior to program and working the Steps I was always praying for my will, and becoming angry with HP when my prayers were unanswered.
After working the Steps, especially this one, I have a much deeper understanding of the power of prayer, and that praying for HP's will and the power to carry it out is the most important action I can take each day. I also know that HP does hear each prayer and answers them in His own way. It is up to me to keep an open mind and see the guidance and help that is right in front of me.
Certainly appreciate your service in sharing this reading from HFT.
