Today's reading is about continued growth and change in Al-Anon recovery.  I love today's reminder ---  There is something new for me to learn today.  I will open my mind and my heart to the lessons my Higher Power brings me.

This simple, yet powerful reminder helps me understand how recovery gives us a chance each day to start fresh.  If we just keep an open mind and heart, we are presented with opportunities to grow and change.  The quote is from Albert Einstein - "The important thing is not to stop questioning."

The writer discusses continual growth through working the steps.  After time in recovery, she found that she was angry by life/people/situations.  The anger was much of the time, and the writer thought that others and situations were the source.  Yet, applying our program steps to her scenario, she found from an inventory that it was pride and arrogance that was the key issue.  Her need to be right was robbing her of serenity in all kinds of situations.

Length of time in recovery doesn't change our need to be vigilant.  We are all equals and we are all affected in different ways.  Yet, our common tools/principles can help us grow and change always.

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For me, this has also proven to be spot on.  When I find myself discontent with people, places and things, I almost feel a nudge from my HP to slow down, and gently take a good look at me.  It's easy for my brain to slip into negative thinking if I step away from the structure I prefer for living my program, One Day at a Time.

This reading hits home today.  It's been a bit chaotic around here for a couple weeks as my oldest has returned to AA recovery.  It sounds very strange to 'say this out loud', but the insanity of his early recovery is worse than when he was active.  He's been highly agitated, combative and just nasty at times and my ability to not take it personally has slipped a bit.  I have no doubt he is overwhelmed, and I'm practicing compassion and patience.  Yet, I feel that I've been taken hostage by the disease again and am looking for my escape path!

I do know this will pass.  I do know that where we both are is where we should be.  I am working to keep the focus on me and be of service - yet I feel my serenity is affected.  I intend, just for today, to stay close to my HP and my program.  This has never failed me so seems like a good plan.

Happy Friday to one and all.  Make it a great day!