As we start the month of March, this daily reading addresses the pitfalls of seeking knowledge, waiting for insight as a way to avoid action, and trying to analyze alcoholism. Analyzing and insisting on answers could prevent us from accepting the reality of our situation and facing the fact that we may never fully understand the disease of alcoholism. We could also falter by waiting for a clear understanding of a Higher Power, and letting that stand in the way of taking action and praying. 

Today's Reminder:  Information can be wonderfully enlightening, but it is not the answer to every problem. I will be honest about my motives today.

Quote: "If you understand, things are as they are; if you do not understand, things are just as they are."  - Zen Proverb

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The reminder to check my motives is, for me, the key to this topic. I remember when I came across information about the science behind alcoholism, what happens in the brain, the chemistry, etc.  We don't discuss that type of literature in Al-Anon meetings, and I understand why, as it could easily distract from our main purpose. It was a good thing I didn't come across this scientific information until I'd had some time in the program and had read all the Al-Anon books I could get my hands on, and after I was no longer in crisis mode.   If I had found this information earlier, when I still thought I could change my husband, I might have said, "Look, honey, here's a book that explains what is wrong with you."  That would not have gone over well. Instead,  I found it at a time when all I could do was increase my own understanding of the cunning, baffling, and powerful disease.

As the Zen proverb says, this understanding did not change my situation.  But it did change me.  It increased my empathy and forgiveness.