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 ODAT reading for June 4 speaks about the importance of prayer in our lives. The reading points out, that if we pray" my will be done" this is exactly what we say when we ask God to do what we want. If we receive what we pray for-.how do we know it will really made us happy?
We do not always know what's best for us and praying for our will is the act of giving directions to God. It is best to limit our prayers request for guidance and for an open mind to receive it and the courage and confidence to use it.
The quote is "I pray too wait patiently for the knowledge of God's will."
I must admit that often. God's will for me was not something that I would've elected on my own. . I needed to pray for courage, and wisdom to accept the path that I was given. I am eternally grateful to Al-Anon and to my Higher Power for my life and the goodness and love that I have found. Before program, I did not understand that life was not a bowl of cherries but is difficult.and I needed powerful tools in order to face life on life's terms,. Al-Anon gave me those tools.to live with faith , trust and courage.
Good morning Betty and happy Sunday! Thanks for your service, the daily and your ESH. I heard of prayer since I was small and always prayed - unfortunately mostly for my will. I was angry at God, disappointed in my life and wondered often what I had done to deserve where I was!
Recovery helped me see that where I am is where I am supposed to be. Life is difficult yet we are blessed each day with miracle moments and joy....some of us just can't see it because our own self-will and ego block the sunlight of the spirit.
My best days are those when I can pray with earnest intent for God's will in my life. I 'see' much more clearly when I recognize the speed bumps as part of the journey and intended to teach me instead of punish me. I too have moments I look back on and can clearly see the outcome was not even close to what I wanted or thought should happen. Yet, I can also accept and embrace that it is what it is as I am still growing, learning and living my spiritual life.
Grateful for a loving HP and a solid program of recovery. Grateful for those who came before me who shared their ESH instead of advice. Grateful for the gift of a willing heart and an open mind - happy to be me where I am, just for today.
Make it a great Sunday - off to a meeting in a bit and softball later...(((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
Thank you Betty and IAH for your service and ESH; very helpful points on a powerful topic.
I find the Reminder comment particularly striking:
"It should not be so hard for us to accept the obvious fact that few of us know what we really want, and none of us knows what is best for us. That knowledge remains in the hands of god."
This speaks to me about Steps 1-3, calling for me to admit and accept my powerlessness over alcohol and all things outside of myself, and my belief in a higher power as the source of my recovery and sanity. When I have this in proper perspective and turn my life and will over to my higher power, I am relieved of the burden and poor results from thinking I know what I or others need.
When I claim to know what I or others need, I interfere with reliance and communication with god. I have so much more peace and serenity in my life when I admit I don't know, and so do those around me. So grateful for the wisdom and guidance
Have a great day on the diamond IAH, give it your best Eddy Volquez!
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Paul
"...when we try to control others, we lose the ability to manage our own lives." - Paths to Recovery
Thanks Paul - saw Eddy's perfect game on the news this AM - what a great way to have a game that is dedicated to a friend gone too soon!
Happy, Happy Sunday! Nap time....
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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
