Today's reading reminds us that we each have our own path in life and in recovery.  It suggests that when we arrive at Al-Anon, many of us resent others who appear to have less troubled lives.  

The program helps us to understand and accept that we are all special and different.  We always have exactly what we need, but not necessarily what we want.  If we can trust that HP has a better grasp on what is good for us, we will better accept all that is - for ourselves as well as in others.

The reading discusses envy and how it is a waste of time to want what we think others have.  Envy can turn into resentments, which will only put a wedge between us and another who has their own path.  "Envy is nothing more than a hostile form of self-pity."

Finally, the reading does suggest we find gratitude for the many gifts, talents and opportunities we've been given.  Just for today, we are asked to celebrate all that we are, and not think, dwell or want that which we think another has.

Today's reminder:  Another person's bounty reminds me that wonderful things can happen at any time to anybody.  I will appreciate the many gifts I have been given.

Today's quote is from Horace - "Whatever hour God has blessed you with, take it with grateful hand."

I can relate to today's reading - before program, I always compared my insides to other people's outsides.  They had a better family, a better husband, better children, better home, etc.  I felt that I was in competition to some extent, and it truly warped my thinking and actions.  As I suffered from stinking thinking, I truly had little ability to accept where I was, and be grateful for what I had.

Today I can celebrate honestly the gifts I have and be happy for others as well.  I don't have to concern myself with another person's path, as it's their life to live.  I can focus on my path, my gifts and my day/actions/reactions.  I am grateful for what I have and where I've been - it makes me who I am today!