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.
Today's daily is about Step Six- becoming ready for God to remove our defects of character -- described as 'those roadblocks that keep me stranded, unable to freely travel life's magnificent boulevard.'
The quote truly sums things up splendidly - "God seldom delivers . . . virtues all wrapped in a package and ready for use. Rather He puts us in situations where by His help we can develop those virtues." ~~ C.R. Findley
The reminder - I am not perfect. The character defects I have carried around for so many will not vanish instantly. But with faith and hope I can work my way through them one at a time, one day at a time.
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My experience aligns with this reading. As I began my recovery journey, my ego and pride blocked me from seeing myself clearly. I justified my pain, anger, resentments, pride telling myself and anyone who would listen that I my alcoholic was horrible, had destroyed our lives, marriage, etc. For as long as I focused 'there' instead of on me, I was blocked from growing, changing and authentic joy.
I no longer look beyond myself for the problem or the solution. I know through recovery that I am powerless over other people, places and things and obsessing over those is pointless and keeps me stuck. I do believe that if I just align with my HP each day, all will be well and I don't have to try to change, control, judge, etc. anyone but me.
Step 6 helps me find authenticity, identify and feel emotions and deal with life in a healthier way. When I am willing to change, more if revealed and each day presents me with growth and change. I am free to be me, imperfectly imperfect!
Happy Thursday all....we have a lovely shower this morning and it smells so good! I'm taking a day off from golf and resting my body/mind/soul. Make it a great day!
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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
Thanks IAH for your service and share full of wisdom. I've come to love Step 6, and I ask God every morning to please take my character defects. And that includes the anger and resentment I still carry towards my A, as she remains an untreated alcoholic. I know everything would not be perfect, but I am sure that things would be better. As you said IAH, I can only control myself, and so towards me is where I put my work and energy. Betty taught me not to try and force solutions. I have given that up. I also pray each morning for my A to find her HP, for despite years of my efforts, I accept that I cannot make her change. Lyne