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.
The Courage to Change reading for February 28 speaks about the Third Step and discusses how turning our will and life over to the care of HP helps to relieve anxiety and fear . The reading points out that the Third Step is an ongoing process and is not simply done once and forgotten. It suggests that as recovery progresses,we come to trust our Higher Power and when we face a decision whether it involves dealing with an alcoholic, accepting a job offer or making plans we naturally "ask for guidance." and listen inwardly for the answer.
When I pick up the phone to speak with an Al-Anon friend I usually ask that I might serve as a channel for HP. I cannot always tell my HP's will, but I can see greater spiritual awareness everyday and become willing to receive guidance.
In today's reminder it is suggested that faith takes practice. The more will include Higher Power in our actions, the more positive my faith will become.
The quote is from Al-Anon 12 Steps and 12 Tradition; "Step Three suggests I teach myself from this moment on to be receptive, to open myself to help from my HP."
I love how gradual, and understanding this program is. If I had been told that I had to trust God with my life from day one, I would've left. The steps slowly but surely guides me towards this trust and action. It is also very freeing to know that I can and should work the first three steps every morning, so as to center, my attitude and life. In other words I don't just work the steps once and forget them. They need to become a part of whom I am and how I think.
Thank you Betty for the daily, your service and your ESH. I too would have probably ran fast and furious towards the door if Step 1 were Step 3 or someone told me I would give my will and life over to a God of my understanding. I had some 'old school' thinking going on when I arrived that blocked me for a bit from the sunlight of the spirit and needed the steps exactly as written.
Had I not been able to surrender and accept that I was powerless over alcohol completely, I would not have been able to see my own part in the disease (my insanity). I am grateful that no matter what has happened and no matter what the future may bring, I will not be alone so long as I remain open-minded and open-hearted.
I am moving slow today - first softball tourney of the year here - lovely weather for February in KS....I am off to my F2F meeting in a bit and grateful to be going - I missed yesterday for the outing. Make it a great day everyone!!! (((Hugs)))
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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
It's amazing how often i need to remind myself of this step; it's just second nature to try to decide all by myself how everything and everyone need to be...instead of remembering that it will all unfold the way it's meant to unfold IF I GET OUT OF THE WAY AND LET IT!!!
Thanks for the reminder
And happy meeting to you IAH
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If I had a world of my own, everything would be nonsense. Nothing would be what it is, because everything would be what it isn't. And contrary wise, what is, it wouldn't be. And what it wouldn't be, it would. You see? (Lewis Caroll)
Thanks ladies.....I just found out that 3 children of HS friends have committed suicide. Not together, all separate events within 2 days.
I am just overwhelmed with loss, death and grief this year and we're not 2 months into it. A friend at the meeting has to explain to his small children that their mother is going to die of cancer. And another at the meeting passed this week of pancreatic cancer.
It is not all about me, I do realize that but it sure is way too close to home this year. Please keep all those who've lost someone in your prayers...
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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
Wow, it's just coming at you from all sides isn't it? I'm so sorry. hugs, positive vibes and prayers all coming your way.
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If I had a world of my own, everything would be nonsense. Nothing would be what it is, because everything would be what it isn't. And contrary wise, what is, it wouldn't be. And what it wouldn't be, it would. You see? (Lewis Caroll)
Thanks MissMell for the shock - I am just totally in shock.....I'm planning a nap as I'm so tired from ball yesterday. But, I dread going on facebook today...maybe I won't! That sounds like good self-care, just for today...
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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
It's just beyond belief....that's what I keep telling myself.
4 of those who've passed were under 25. I believe this is what causing me great sadness - to see young life end so very soon. I keep telling myself there is a bigger plan that I am not aware of.
Thanks ladies - your thoughts and prayers are greatly appreciated.
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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
((IAH))) I agree there is a Bigger Plan and sometimes I found it is so hard to accept the painful reality of life on life's terms. Being powerless and trusting HP helps.
After turning my life and my will over to the Lord, not that I don't try to take it back and control it sometimes, life has gotten so much better. I have faith and trust in God like never before and realize there are no mistakes only lessons. If I learn the lesson fast I don't have to bruise my head a second time, but sometimes I do, because I think I know better, yes another bump, until I accept everything as is and that I am not in control then it all comes together, amazing enough!
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Sending you love and support on your journey always! BreakingFree
Al-Anon/Alateen Family Group Headquarters, Inc. 800-344-2666
" Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional."
"Serenity is when your body and mind are in the same place."
