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.
ODA T reading for October 17 speaks about the principles of the 12 steps. It then. identifies the Steps as a body of spiritual wisdom that unfolds and expands our understanding slowly as we continue to practice the principles of each ,
The reading goes on to say that there is one Step that should be studied everyday for its power to shed light on the others. This is the 11th Step which speaks about prayer and meditation.
The reading explains that meditation is the quiet application of our minds to one spiritual truth. Its purpose is to deflect our minds from the problems we are experiencing. If you are able to raise your thoughts about the grievances and discontent. we find a rich freedom and serenity.
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"Prayer is talking to God meditation is listening to God."
Today's reminder, ask us to set aside five minutes each day for this powerful rewarding spiritual concentration. This will be a huge step toward recovery.
I found this to be true I jumped to this Step early in program because the others seemed too difficult . I am glad I did
Thank you for todays ODAT reading Betty. Meditation and prayer are very important to me, even before I got involved with Al-anon, so it I found that I was very much at ease with Al-anon very quickly. Both meditation and prayer are two practices that I maintain everyday, usually first thing in the morning. It is at that time of the day that I connect with HP and express my gratitude for everything I have been given. I am grateful for MIP and Al-anon.
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"Forgiveness doesn't excuse bad behavior, but it
does prevent bad behavior from destroying your heart". ~ unknown
Great daily today and perfectly lovely. Without the effort to improve my relationship with my HP, I don't grown, change, etc.
Step 11 asks us to spend time each day in prayer and meditation. I have shared that my ability to be still and meditate isn't easy but I still put in the effort and try. I believe that any effort is better than no effort, and if I can't do it for as long as I planned, it's ok - it's about the effort - hence progress, not perfection.
I try to pray & meditate each morning as I contemplate my day. I do it again at the end of each day as I contemplate how my day went. I am grateful that others who are wiser than I suggested this in the beginning as it's one of my favorite parts of my life & the program.
I have tons of room for improvement for the prayer/meditation, but do believe I am closer to my HP than ever before. That makes me grateful and the best output from a grateful person is peaceful, serene existence.
Hugs to all - grateful for MIP and Al-Anon beyond words most days!!!
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Practice the PAUSE...Pause before judging. Pause before assuming. Pause before accusing. Pause whenever you are about to react harshly and you will avoid doing and saying things you will later regret. ~~~~ Lori Deschene
I was thinking of yesterdays "Addicted to Al-Anon" discussion as I read the page of the day and the information as always fit that discussion too. In fact both readings C2C and the ODAAT fit that discussion and I was grateful again for this God mentored journey in that we are constantly supported and fulfilled "if we keep and open mind" for our recovery. Mahalo Betty and your others for your ESH every time my mind is open. (((((hugs)))))
