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Post by majestyjo on Nov 1, 2014 12:17:05 GMT -5
November 1
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
My friend promised when these things were done I would enter upon a new relationship with my Creator; that I would have the elements of a way of living which answered all my problems. Belief in the power of God, plus enough willingness, honesty, and humility to establish and maintain the new order of things, were the essential requirements.
Simple, but not easy; a price had to be paid. It meant destruction of self-centeredness. I must turn in all things to the Father of Light who presides over us all. - Pgs. 13-14 - Bill's Story
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
During crisis, we must not act as isolated persons with nothing gained from fellowship. We stick together. If one of us pulls away, we pull them back. WE recover as WE, not as an I.
As I walk this road of recovery, let me know I don't walk alone. In fact I march in an army of WE.
Ego Death
When I begin to experience real love, I go through an ego death. On my road to spiritual freedom, which is nothing more than learning to love, I go through what has long been called a dark night of the soul. This is a death of the ego, not in the Freudian sense, but in the way ego is defined in Eastern philosophy. I have a small 'I' and a large 'I.'
Part of my path toward expansion into my larger external self, which is of God and Love, is a death of my smaller self, which sees the world as here only to feed my needs. Really it is through the recognition of giving and receiving and of loving that we become full.
I allow and understand my ego death.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
Sometimes it is heard around the tables that there's 'us alkies and addicts' and then there's the so-called 'normal people. So-called 'normal' people are simply people that you haven't gotten to know very well.
'Normal' is a cycle on my washing machine, not a cycle in my life.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
God's will: you've turned it over. Self-will: you've over turned it.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
It feels so good to know that I am truly full of goodness and love and that I can begin from this very moment to choose to express that part of myself.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
If you say the Lord's Prayer, be careful of saying the lines: 'Forgive my trespasses as I forgive those who trespass against me.' if there are people you haven't forgiven. Because you'll be asking God to do the same.'
- Un-remembered source ( paraphrased )
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 4, 2014 0:27:31 GMT -5
November 2
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
Faith without works was dead, he said. And how appallingly true for the alcoholic! For if an alcoholic failed to perfect and enlarge his spiritual life through work and self-sacrifice for others, he could not survive the certain trials and low spots ahead. - Pg. 14-15 - Bill's Story
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
It is important to learn the focal points of our continuing recovery. They are: meetings, steps, a sponsor, and fellowship.
May the focal points of recovery burn into my consciousness now.
The Mystery
Today, I accept that part of myself that will never be satisfied, and I comfort and tame it. There is a place in me that knows it will never necessarily solve the eternal questions of life: Who am I and where do I come from, and where do I go when I die? At times, I can get depressed about that and feel that there's no real point to life. But I am beginning to feel that to accept and love this side of myself is what also gives life beauty and meaning. Perhaps meaning is not knowing and understanding, but an acceptance of mystery, an embracing of the unknown. After all, it is that mystery that gives even the most ordinary circumstance an eternal sort of glow - a sense of depth, a feeling that there is more.
I accept that I will never fully understand - I embrace the mystery.
- Tian Dayton Phd
'The soul is restless and furious; it wants to tear itself apart and cure itself of being human.'- Ugo Betti
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
They say that when you are angry or resentful at someone, your best course of action is to pray for them. That's difficult when you'd rather bop the bastard. Say it like you mean it, until you mean to say it.
Whenever I want to get even, I get even worse.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
If you don't hear what you need to hear, say what you need to hear.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
I am filled with all the strength and energy I need today to follow my own truth. I am willing to take risks today and to find out for myself what works for me in my life.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
Most of my problems today are in areas that I didn't even have areas when I was drinking. - Earl H.
__________________
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 4, 2014 14:48:17 GMT -5
November 3
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
In some circumstances we have gone out deliberately to get drunk, feeling ourselves justified by nervousness, anger, worry, depression, jealousy, or the like. But even in this type of beginning we are obliged to admit that our justification for a spree was insanely insufficient in the light of what always happened. We now see that when we began to drink deliberately, instead of casually, there was little serious or effective thought during the period of premeditation of what the consequences might be. - Pg. 37 - More About Alcoholism
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
There are no maps to recovery, only steps to freedom from active addiction. Take out your book right now and read the first three steps. These are the tools you need for recovery.
I can't. God can. I think I'll let God do it!
Anger and Blame
Today, I accept my feelings of anger and blame without beating myself up for them. Feelings aren't facts; they are meant to inform me of what is going on inside me. When I constantly judge myself for what I feel, I make my difficult emotions much more complicated, and they last ten times as long. There is nothing inherently wrong with any feelings - so what if I am angry and feel like getting mad? Accepting this allows the feeling to pass through me. Fighting it keeps me tangled up inside with no way out. Judging myself doesn't help anyone, least of all me. Frightening feelings are just frightening feelings. I do not have to overreact to them.
My own feelings need not toss me in every direction.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
People may off handedly say 'Have a nice day,' and you don't see anything 'nice' about today. Maybe they should say, 'Have a nice day, unless you have other plans.'
I don't 'have' a nice day, I 'make' a nice day!
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
Appreciate simplicity.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
In the silence of my meditation, I receive guidance and direction. I am filled with all the power I need to take my next step.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
I was furious. I looked up at the ceiling and screamed; 'I don't believe in you and I think you're a jerk!' then I realized, if I didn't believe in God, who in the hell was I yelling at? Then, being a good ex-Catholic, I waited for three weeks to see if I was going to be punished for calling Him a jerk. - Ken D.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 4, 2014 14:49:13 GMT -5
November 4
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
There will be other profound changes in the household. Liquor incapacitated father for so many years that mother became head of the house. By force of circumstances, she was often obliged to treat father as a sick or wayward child. Even when he wanted to assert himself he could not, for his drinking placed him constantly in the wrong. Mother made all the plans and gave the directions. When sober, father usually obeyed. Thus mother, though no fault of her own, became accustomed to wearing the family trousers. Father, coming suddenly to life again, often begins to assert himself. This means trouble, unless the family watches for these tendencies in each other and comes to a friendly agreement about them. - Pgs. 130-131 - The Family Afterward
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
Meditation is a sacred activity that will strengthen not only your recovery but rejuvenate you physically and mentally as well. Prayers and meditation have even been proven to strengthen the immune system. You send a message of life to your immune system when you envision yourself healthy and whole.
I picture myself as a healthy and whole person in recovery practicing the principles I learn.
The Witness
Today, I will become aware of that part of me that is separate and observes all that I say, do, think and feel. I have a witness within me that can become a very useful part of my life. Watching my behavior with a little bit of objectivity will help me to see myself as I really am. I will look with a compassionate eye. Just as I know it is not right to hurt others intentionally, it is equally not right to hurt myself. I recognize the godlike nature within me and others - we are all a part of the same Higher Power. By allowing my mind to watch itself with no thought of controlling or participating, I can learn a great deal about the way I work.
I am an uncritical observer of my own inner workings.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
White lies, little lies, and unimportant lies are still all lies. Even small dishonesties will make your life uncomfortable. Is it worth it?
If I always tell the truth, I never have to remember what I have said.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
Good things get better when they are shared.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
I speak from my own truth today. I come from a place of love or I say nothing at all.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
It seems a sponsor's job is to comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable. - Bob E.
__________________
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 5, 2014 20:36:54 GMT -5
November 5
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
If you think you are an 'atheist, an agnostic, a skeptic, or have any form of intellectual pride which keeps you from accepting what is in this book, I feel sorry for you. If you still think you are strong enough to beat the game alone, that is your affair. But if you really and truly want to quit drinking liquor for good and all, and sincerely feel that you must have some help, we know that we have an answer for you. It never fails, if you go about it with one half the zeal you have been in the habit of showing when you were getting another drink.
Your Heavenly Father will never let you down! - Pg. 181 - Doctor Bob's Nightmare
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
To insist stubbornly on clinging to old relationships, when they are basically drug oriented relationships is sabotaging our recovery process. Is it not our disease finding a 'good' excuse to keep us close to drugs?
May I be able to hear the suggestions of those who work with me. May I listen in this next hour and follow the suggestions.
Separation
Today, I see that some of my anger towards my parents or their generation is about my need to separate from them and seek an individual identity. Even if my parents were wonderful, it would be natural to want to become my own person. Healthy parents have an easier time allowing this process because they have their own identity and intuitively understand what their children are doing. Less healthy parents take separation as a personal indictment and tend either to hold on tighter or to reject the relationships altogether. It is difficult to separate under these circumstances because it becomes so threatening. It is difficult to establish an individual identity without fearing either great loss or engulfment.
I see separation for what it is.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
Emotions are influenced by our interactions with others. How we signal others greatly influences how they respond to us.
If I am constantly being mistreated, I am probably co-operating with the treatments.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
Walk on soles, not on souls.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
Today I do everything that I can to be in the now. That means letting go of all the baggage of the past that I am still carrying with me.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
Egotism enables a man in a rut to think he's in a groove. - Anon.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 6, 2014 16:25:00 GMT -5
November 6
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
Next, we decided that hereafter in this drama of life, God was going to be our Director. He is the Principle: we are His agents. He is the Father, and we are His children. Most good ideas are simple, and this concept was the keystone of the new and triumphant arch through which we passed to freedom. - Pg. 62 - How It Works
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
Doubts can be a good thing. It shows we're still thinking. Of course we doubt the wisdom of taking steps, going to meetings, and practicing spiritual principles to arrest this deadly disease of addiction. Even Thomas doubted his path with Jesus, but given time, he saw the wisdom of the spiritual path. His doubts were allayed.
May my doubts, like Thomas's fade away in time, as I observe the miracles in myself and others.
Projection
Today, I understand that when I project my feelings outward and see them as belonging to other people and not to me, I postpone my own self-awareness. The only way I can deal with difficult feelings is first to claim them as my own. Sitting with anxiety, anger, rage and jealousy is not pleasant, but actually experiencing my own feelings is the only way to get through them.
I own my feelings and am willing to experience them.
- Tian Dayton PhD
'Self-forgiveness brings your mental and emotional energy systems back into balance. That's all. No big deal. It's not necessarily religious or spiritual, it's just good ol' street sense - the missing link in intelligence that scientists are looking for. Once you practice forgiving and releasing yourself, you'll realize the benefits soon in the way you feel overall.'
- Doc Childre
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
'We don't see things as they are. We see things as we are.' ~Talmudic Saying
I need to put things in perspective because I have a disease of perception.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
Today I know that I am in charge of the quality of my life. I am growing in the ability to become aware of the thoughts that have been controlling me.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
Diabetics watch what they eat and take insulin. I watch what I drink and take the steps. - Anon.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 7, 2014 23:01:56 GMT -5
November 7
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
Most emphatically we wish to say that any alcoholic capable of honestly facing his problems in the light of our experience can recover, provided he does not close his mind to all spiritual concepts. He can only be defeated by an attitude of intolerance or belligerent denial. - Pg. 568 - 4th. Edition - Appendices II - Spiritual Experience
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
Our freedom lies in recognizing the threefold illusion of this disease--mind (I can handle it), desire (it feels good), and flesh (I need it). These are all illusions which we soon will be liberated from.
May I surrender my illusions about the 'goodness' of mind affecting chemicals for myself and any addict / alcoholic.
Inner Belief
I believe in this world; it is the place that I have been born into. I love the breeze and the grass, the sky and the water. I have an intimate exchange with nature - like a lover. I feel held and nourished by it. I believe in people; they are the species to which I belong. I recognize that, underneath our superficial differences, we all want and need the same things. I believe that truth and goodness will prevail. I have experienced and seen more healing than I thought would ever happen. I feel good with small gains. I see deep meaning in quiet things, and I am moved by a power that I cannot explain but that I sense inside and out. Today, I feel good.
I believe in life.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
Eventually, in everyone's recovery comes the day when reason doesn't cut it and we hit a wall. At this point, you either have a break down or a break through. If you've been doing Step Eleven, you'll have the break through.
Sometimes I have to get on my knees to rise.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
Recovery isn't a death sentence. It's a life sentence.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
Today I fight for what is really important to me in a spiritual way. I no longer waste my good energy to win or be right.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
With the 12th Step we have this great guarantee; 'Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps.' It's the only thing we're working for, or towards; a spiritual awakening, And it's a flat out guarantee; you cannot take the Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous without having a spiritual awakening It is impossible, So relax. Cubby S.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 7, 2014 23:02:19 GMT -5
November 8
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
Now about sex. Many of us needed an overhauling there. But above all, we tried to be sensible on this question. It's so easy to get way off track. Here we find human opinions running to extremes - absurd extremes, perhaps. One set of voices cry that sex is a lust of our lower nature, a base necessity of procreation. Then we have the voices who cry for sex and more sex; show bewail the institution of marriage; who think that most of the troubles of the race are traceable to sex causes. They think we do not have enough of it, or that it isn't the right kind. They see its significance everywhere. One school would allow man no flavor for his fare and the other would have us all on a straight pepper diet. We want to stay out of this controversy. we do not want to be the arbiter of anyone's sex conduct. we all have sex problems. We'd hardly be human if we didn't. - Pgs. 68-69 - How It Works
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
We must now learn to do our daily maintenance work on our program. This is prayer and meditation. Prayer is when we talk to our Spiritual Source and meditation is when we listen.
God, as You have meaning for me, my prayer is for conscious contact. Now I will be silent for five full minutes and listen.
Personal Truth
Today, I know that no one from my past needs to see things the way I do for me to get better and move on. Trying to convince others of what I have learned through my own journey can be an exercise in futility and delay my progress. First of all, each of us has our own truth that is unique unto itself. Second of all, each of us is at a different level of understanding and acceptance of who and where we are in life. Each member in my family had different experiences. That I thought we somehow matched up was an illusion. We each experienced our childhoods in our own way and have a right to our own perceptions. I do not have to get anyone to see it my way in order for me to feel comfortable. My truth is my truth, theirs is theirs.
I honor my own experiences and personal truth, as well as those of others.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
As we learn to accept our disease, our circumstances and what we must do to recover, we come to realize that although we may not have control over these situations, we do have control over how we react to them. Bill W., co-founder of the Twelve-Step programs, wrote 'We neither ran nor fought. But accept we did. And then we were free.'
Am I finished with fighting?
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
You don't wait and get well enough to do the steps; you do the steps to get well.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
When I get up today, no matter how I feel, I begin my day by letting it go to a power greater than myself. I am beginning this day by giving myself the gift of prayer and meditation.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
Alcohol was my comforter, my friend, my lover...My God. Margaret.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 9, 2014 16:53:06 GMT -5
November 9
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
Though the family does not fully agree with dad's spiritual activities, they should let him have his head. Even if he displays a certain amount of neglect and irresponsibility towards the family, it is well to let him go as far as he likes in helping other alcoholics. During those first days of convalescence, this will do more to insure his sobriety than anything else. Though some of his manifestations are alarming and disagreeable, we think dad will be on a firmer foundation than the man who is placing business or professional success ahead of spiritual development. He will be less likely to drink again, and anything is preferable to that. - Pgs. 129-130 - The Family Afterward
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
Service to another addict/alcoholic or to our group can help calm us when the jitters get rough. Think of one other fellow recoverer who also seemed jittery at the last meeting or maybe didn't show up. You can get in touch with them today and ask if you can help.
God, as I understand You, give me the right words to comfort or to encourage a fellow recoverer.
Learning
Today, I do not accept other people's truth as my truth. Even if what they believe seems better or more obvious, I need to give myself credit for feeling and seeing what I feel and see. Learning is meaningful to me as it relates to or is understood within the workings of my own mind. Without something in me making it relevant, learning is very disconnected. I am the learner behind the information; I am the seer behind the seen. I learn by direct experience.
I learn to trust the perceptions that I gain from my own observation of life.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
'The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them.' ~Albert Einstein
When my problems are significant and my program isn't working, I work my sponsor's program for awhile.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
The Steps are your daily bread, not cake for special occasions.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
Today I am fully alive, fully open to all there is, knowing that I can handle all that is coming my way.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
Alcoholism is the only disease they lock you up for. Anon.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 10, 2014 22:36:48 GMT -5
November 10
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
If a person has cancer all are sorry for him and no one is angry or hurt. But not so with the alcoholic illness, for with it there goes annihilation of all things worth while in life. It engulfs all whose lives touch the sufferer's. It brings misunderstanding, fierce resentment, financial insecurity, disgusted friends and employers, warped lives of blameless children, sad wives and parents - anyone can increase the list. - Pg. 18 - There Is A Solution
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
Doubts can be a good thing. It shows we're still thinking. Of course we doubt the wisdom of taking steps, going to meetings, and practicing spiritual principles to arrest this deadly disease of addiction. Even Thomas doubted his path with Jesus, but given time, he saw the wisdom of the spiritual path. His doubts were allayed.
May my doubts, like Thomas's fade away in time, as I observe the miracles in myself and others.
Higher Power Within Me
Today, I recognize that a Higher Power lives and breathes inside me, through me, as me. I used to think that God was the chairperson of somebody else's board, and I spent my time in search of another person's version of a Higher Power. But really, there is no searching - it is more like an acceptance. That is the well-kept secret: that God lives, not in the heavens or inside special buildings, but within my very self. My direct access to myself is my direct access to my Higher Power, and my estrangement from myself is my estrangement from my Higher Power. We are co-creators, hand-in-glove, a team. Today, I see allowing God into my life as an act of surrender, acceptance and love.I love my Higher Power and my Higher Power loves me - we are one.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
Not knowing, is not the problem. Not being OK with not knowing is the problem.
I don't need to figure it out. I just need to do it.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
Don't let your reality check bounce.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
In moments of stress, doubt, uncertainty, anger or pain, I can pause and say the serenity prayer, knowing that I will get all the strength, courage and wisdom that I need.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
If alcoholism is a three-fold disease; mental, physical - and the mental and physical mix together and create a soul sickness - and psycho therapy is mental, which is one-fold. I'd be trying to treat a three-fold illness with one fold, which would leave me two fold short. Which would explain why I felt like I was bringing a knife to a gunfight my whole life. - Scott R.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 11, 2014 3:10:44 GMT -5
AA 'Big Book' - Quote Follow the dictates of a Higher Power and you will presently live in a new and wonderful world, no matter what your present circumstances! - Pg. 100 - Working With Others Hour To Hour - Book - Quote Another day of sobriety begins. In our new recovery, we continue to welcome with open arms, those now newer than us. Today we DO one kind thing for someone: get them a cup of coffee, escort a newcomer to a chair, empty an ashtray after a meeting. God, as I understand You, show me each day some kind thing I can DO for someone else. Tian Dayton, PhD. - Book Quotes - Emotional Sobriety Visit www.tiandayton.com to view her various works. Sign up for her daily email affirmations there too! Some books by Tian Dayton, PhD. include: Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul, Emotional Recovery, Trauma and Addiction, Heart Wounds, Forgiving & Moving On, The Magic of Forgiveness, The Soul's Companion, Journey through Womanhood. Inner Hearing, Inner Sight Today, I will trust my own heart. The clear message that whispers within me has more to tell me than a thousand voices. I have a guide within me who knows what is best for me. There is a part of me that sees the whole picture and knows how it all fits together. My inner voice may come in the form of a strong sense, a pull from within, a gut feeling or a quiet knowing. However my inner voice comes to me, I will learn to pay attention. In my heart I know what is going on. Though I am conditioned by the world to look constantly outside myself for meaning, today I recognize that it is deeply important for me to hear what I am saying from within. I will trust my inner voice. - Tian Dayton PhD Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote When you're being nice, it's OK to over do it. During the HALT moments, when you're too hungry, angry, lonely, and tired, it's not. When I go too far, it is seldom in the right direction. From "Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book Worry gives a small thing a big shadow. Time for Joy - Book - Quote Today I am taking the time I need to look at my growth and progress. I celebrate being alive. I celebrate the good in me. Today I celebrate me. Alkiespeak - Book - Quote You don't have to want what we have - You just have to not want what you have. - Eddie C. |
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 12, 2014 18:31:25 GMT -5
November 12
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
We will seldom be interested in liquor. If tempted, we recoil from it as from a hot flame. We react sanely and normally, and we will find that this has happened automatically. We will see that our new attitude toward liquor has been given us without any thought or effort on our part. It just comes! That is the miracle of it. we are not fighting it, neither are avoiding temptation. We feel as though we had been placed in a position of neutrality - safe and protected. We have not even sworn off. Instead, the problem has been removed. It does not exist for us. We are neither thingyy nor are we afraid. That is our experience. That is how we react so long as we keep in fit spiritual condition. - Pgs. 84-85 - Into Action
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
This is your second chance in life and although the suggestions are easy, the footwork is not. You must surrender on a daily basis, go to 90 meetings in 90 days and do what the clean and sober people tell you. It may take all the strength you have, but it won't take more then you have.
Let me use every ounce of energy I have to stay clean and sober and not waste it on ways to convince myself to use or drink.
Being with Life
Today, I allow myself just to be with life. Somehow, it doesn't have to prove anything to me or give me any more than I already have to be okay. The lessons I have learned through working through all that blocks my forgiveness have taught me that I can face my most difficult feelings and still come home to a place of love and acceptance. Life is always renewing itself; nothing lasts, good or bad, and that is just the way it is. It is enough today to enjoy my coffee, to take a walk, to appreciate the people in my life. I can rest in a quiet sort of understanding that this is what it's all about; all the searching turned up such an ordinary but beautiful thing.
I am enraptured with the ordinary.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
Each person you meet is in a specific stage of their life, a stage you may have passed through or not yet reached. Judging them by your standards and experience is therefore not only unfair, but could lead to unnecessary anger and frustration. (P 135, Alkiespeak)
I practice tolerance by putting up with those I'd like to put down.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
Nothing makes a person more productive than the last minute.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
When I find my NOW full of yesterdays feelings, I can ask for God to remove them. I can pray to turn them over to a power greater than myself so that they will lose their power for me. I no longer need to hold on to memories which create feelings which make me upset or unhappy.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
Life is fragile - Handle with prayer. - Unknown origin.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 13, 2014 22:24:18 GMT -5
November 13
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
The mind and the body are marvelous mechanisms, for mine endured this agony two more years. Sometimes I stole from my wife's slender purse when the morning terror and madness were on me. Again I swayed dizzily before an open window, or the medicine cabinet where there was poison, cursing myself for a weakling. There were flights from city to country and back, as my wife and I sought escape. Then came the night when the physical and mental torture was so hellish I feared I would burst through my window, sash and all. Somehow I managed to drag my mattress to a lower floor, lest I suddenly leap. A doctor came with a heavy sedative. Next day found me drinking both gin and sedative. This combination soon landed me on the rocks. - Pgs. 6-7 - Bill's Story
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
Putting pen to paper can be a pain, reading new material can be frustrating, making numerous phone calls can be an annoyance, getting to a lot of meetings can seem boring, BUT this is the way we start. We must remember what circumstances brought us here in the first place. Was that such a pleasure?
My I place one foot in front of the other to reach my destination of sobriety.
Healing Society
Today, I will light one candle and that candle is myself. I will keep my own flame burning. I turn my sight to light and love and goodness. For today, there is no need to be discouraged. So what if I see and identify all the ills of society and diagnose it as sick - what good will that do me or anyone else? I heal society by healing myself. Just as life is lived one day at a time, the world will heal one person at a time. Each time I think a positive, loving thought, it goes into the ether and vibrates. This is nothing particularly mystical; I have but to sit near someone and look at thier face to feel how their thoughts affect me. I take ownership of my owner inner workings and their effect on myself and others. I do my part to heal the world.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
Don't try to clear away the wreckage of your future.
I stay in today and forget about jump starting tomorrow.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
You must learn to pick up a program, not just set down a drink!
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
Today I am looking within to discover what I am holding onto from the past. Today I am willing to let go of all old anger and resentments that keep me stuck in tension and in pain.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
There's a line in 'Alice In Wonderland': 'You have to run as fast as you can to stay where you are.' And it seems like that's the way I spent most of my life and the first few years of my sobriety.- Gayle W.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 14, 2014 9:27:32 GMT -5
November 14
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
We, of Alcoholics Anonymous, are more than one hundred men and women who have recovered from a seemingly hopeless state of mind and body. To show other alcoholics PRECISELY HOW WE HAVE RECOVERED is the main purpose of this book. For them, we hope these pages will prove so convincing that no further authentication will be necessary. we think this account of our experiences will help everyone to better understand the alcoholic. Many do not comprehend that the alcoholic is a very sick person. And besides, we are sure that our way of living has its advantages for all. - Pg. xiii - 4th. Edition - Forward To First Edition
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
We have been known to think that dishonesty with others was OK as long as it didn't 'hurt' them. We really don't know what will hurt another or not. Being dishonest with other people deprives them of the information they need to run their own lives.
Honesty is honesty. Let me understand that 'little' dishonesties are a disservice to others as well as myself.
Leaving Abuse Behind
Today, I see my life as my life. If I do not take care of it, make plans and dream dreams, who will? I am not second in my own heart - there has to be a place on this Earth where I come first, so that the little child inside me feels loved and held. I will come first with me. In the same way that I will protect my children from harm, I will protect myself. Chaos is a part of a dysfunctional family system. I hardly saw it as unusual - it was just what was, a painful way of life - the only one I knew. I do not need to recreate problem situations in my life today in order to feel stable or as if I have a home. I can live a calm and pleasant life.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
You may very well under-stand your demons, defects, compulsions, and fear. You have an arsenal of information about recovery to overcome them. Why then is it all so difficult? Deep inside you know what you always have known: knowledge alone is not enough.
I know that 'no-ing' is not enough and 'knowing' is not enough. I must do.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
It gets worse, so you have to get better.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
Today I know that whatever ability, talents and energy I have are perfect for this moment. Today I know that God gives me all that I need to do what he wants me to do in this day.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
Speaking from the podiums at meetings and possibly embarrassing myself was way more than I wanted to do. I believe today that my willingness to be embarrassed was the key to me getting a life. - Steve A.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 15, 2014 11:08:36 GMT -5
November 15
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
We doctors have realized for a long time that some form of moral psychology was of urgent importance to alcoholics, but it's application presented difficulties beyond our conception. What with our ultra-modern standards, our scientific approach to everything, we are perhaps not well equipped to apply the powers of good that lie outside our synthetic knowledge. - Pg. xxvii - 4th. Edition - The Doctor's Opinion
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
Whatever time it is that we are reading this, we may feel anxious about what the rest of the day will bring. But our program is a 'now' program. Later will bring what later will bring, right now we're clean and sober!
I will meditate briefly on the phrase 'Be Here Now' to better understand my new way of life.
Being in the Moment
Today, I see that the only real point of power is in the present, which is to say that life cannot be lived backward or forward, but only in the context of today. If I truly let myself have this moment and all that it contains, I will be in quiet possession of great eternal wealth. All that is, is in this moment where all the waters meet and all the wisdom of the ages lies; it is the now that calls me to it with open arms. I work out my past, not because it is right or good or proper, but because it allows me to be in fuller possession of my present. By releasing and returning to me those parts of me that remain prisoner in my own psychic and emotional jail, I can have access to the now. I allow myself this moment.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
We not only attempt geographical 'cures' while drinking, but often while clean and sober too. When you make a move 'for the better,' unless you can honestly say you are running to something positive, then you are running from something that you haven't faced.
No matter how fast or how far I go, I can't outrun myself.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
Not drinking is a symptom of your recovery.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
Today I am learning to think and act in a positive way that is healthy for my mind, body and spirit.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
Laughter is the music of Alcoholics Anonymous. - Angie D.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 16, 2014 17:52:23 GMT -5
November 16
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
It is plain that a life which includes deep resentment leads only to futility and unhappiness. To the precise extent that we permit these, do we squander the hours that might have been worth while. But with the alcoholic, whose hope is the maintenance and growth of a spiritual experience, this business of resentment is infinitely grave. We found that is it fatal. For when harboring such feelings we shut ourselves off from the sunlight of the Spirit. The insanity of alcohol returns and we drink again. And with us, to drink is to die. - Pg. 66 - How It Works
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
To insist stubbornly on holding to old relationships, when they are basically drug oriented relationships is sabotaging our recovery process. Is it not our disease finding a 'good' excuse to keep us close to drugs?
May I be able to hear the suggestions of those who work with me. May I listen in this next hour and follow the suggestions.
Learning from Life
There are no 'buts' today. I am what I am, others are what they are, life is what it is. I will not parenthesize my growth with a 'but' or hold back my forward-moving spirit with second-guesses. For today, I am living with things as they are. I am exactly where I am meant to be, learning what I need to learn. All I need do is move through situations with willingness to learn and openness to feel. When feelings are brought up, I can accept them as what is happening within me - no need to resist and analyze them. Transformation will happen in the moving through and the acceptance of them. I trust that my life is unfolding in such a way that what I need to learn will be before me. I am willing to learn.
I see the 'table prepared.'
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
A temper will get us into trouble and pride will keep us there.
I can't save my face and my butt at the same time.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
With the first three steps, you get the courage to work the rest. When you work the rest, you get rid of the garbage so you can work the first three.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
Today I know that it does not matter if I cannot see the end of the road. I have absolute faith and trust that I am walking in the right direction and that I am being guided along the way.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
Success consists of getting up one more time than you fall. - Anon
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 18, 2014 8:36:01 GMT -5
For me, that would read, the "yet agains."
I could stop, but couldn't stay stopped. My ex-husband stayed stopped for 9 months. It was good for him, after all he had the problem. I stopped to support him and encourage him and yet the words that came out of my mouth were, "Would it bother you dear if I had a glass a wine with my friend tonight dear?" The truth was, the one who couldn't stay stopped. I found out he had a drinking problem and was a drunk. I had a thinking problem and was the alcoholic.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 18, 2014 8:36:28 GMT -5
November 18
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
As we discovered the principles by which the individual alcoholic could live, so we had to evolve principles by which A.A. groups and A.A. as a whole could survive and function effectively. It was thought that no alcoholic man or woman could be excluded from our Society; that our leaders might serve but never govern; that each group was to be autonomous and there was to be no professional class of therapy. - Pg. xix - 4th Edition - Forward To The Second Edition
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
Addiction is the great solvent that equalizes all people. We are equal in our addiction and equal in our program of recovery. Although with each passing day of sobriety we get clearer, we are only one fix, pill, drink, smoke, or snort away from a binge--at 18 days or 18 years!
May I realize I am no better or worse than another, or them from me. We are equal in our recovery.
Letting Go
Letting go of the past and moving on is a tall order; it requires a kind of releasing that I still find difficult to do. My past will always be in the shadows of my memory to haunt me if I do not recognize it as a part of me. If I pretend it's not important, grit my teeth and force myself to numb myself, I have missed the point of this process. On the other had, if I am unwilling to let go no matter how many times I have worked through certain issues, I am also not allowing myself to be fully healthy and return to life. The part of my healing that is a flowing through the stored pain from the past is a decisive, forward-moving action.
I understand that, as part of my process of healing, my responsibility to let go and move on.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
Honesty without kindness is cruel and kindness without honesty is co-dependence.
If I can't say it kindly, I needn't say it at all.
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
It came to pass; it didn't come to stay.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
Today I can handle whatever comes up, knowing that I am surrounded by all the positive energies of the universe.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
People think that they're going to get sober by osmosis and going to 90 meetings in 90 days. But there's only one way to obtain and maintain sobriety and that's through the program folded within these 164 pages. - Ted H.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 19, 2014 14:18:39 GMT -5
November 19
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
The almost certain consequences that follow taking even a glass of beer do not crowd into the mind to deter us. If these thoughts occur, they are hazy and readily supplanted with the old threadbare idea that this time we shall handle ourselves like other people. There is a complete failure of the kind of defense that keeps one from putting his hand on a hot stove. - Pg. 24 - There Is A Solution
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
The most important thing to know about Step Three, turning our will over to a Higher Power, is that all we can do is DECIDE to do it. There is no 'will' we can wrap and send. Once we make the decision to do this, our Higher Power will work for us through the rest of the Steps.
I decide to align my will with that of the Source of my Spirit.
Reinvestment
I have been through a journey of forgiveness. I've faced my anger and hurt and brought order and clarity to my inner world. I've accepted the things I cannot change and changed the things that I could. Because I've shown the courage to face my inner demons and look them in the eye, I feel stronger and more competent. Forgiveness of my self and others has offered me a way out of pain and confusion, and now I find I have a renewed interest in life. I see things differently. I feel liberated from something that was tying up me energy. And I recognize and accept my own humanity, and the humanity of others. I am ready and willing to reinvest in the ideal of love. I want to find worthy projects and passions, and put my energy toward them. I have something to give to the world and the world has something to give to me. I am right where I am supposed to be and I've met the challenges of my life. I am ready to live.
I invest my energy with care and gusto
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
It is better to have some-one sober and hating you because you told them the truth, rather than have someone drunk and liking you because you told them a lie.
I don't heap on the bull**** when the truth is like Miracle Grow
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
Along the road well traveled, there are many pity potholes.
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
I am so full of love and joy today. I see it everywhere I look, and feel it with every breath that I take.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
If you went to a critical AIDS ward and said 'I've got a deal for you; would you come with me to some meetings, meet and chat with some people, take some actions that seem strange to you - would you do that if I could arrest your AIDS? They'd sign over their homes to you. But, go to the alcoholism ward where they're dying from this disease, and they won't go to an AA meeting two doors down the hall. - Clancy I.
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Post by majestyjo on Nov 20, 2014 21:22:38 GMT -5
November 20
AA 'Big Book' - Quote
We were having trouble with personal relationships, we couldn't control our emotional natures, we were a prey to misery and depression, we couldn't make a living, we had a feeling of uselessness, we were full of fear, we were unhappy, we couldn't seem to be of real help to other people - was not a basic solution of these bedevilments more important than whether we should see newsreels of lunar flight? Of course it was. - Pg. 52 - We Agnostics
Hour To Hour - Book - Quote
When intense cravings for our drug of choice overwhelm us, we immediately talk to another person in recovery, no matter the time. Our program teaches us to rely on each other and they will welcome the contact!
Give me the strength to contact another clean and sober person BEFORE I think of satisfying that craving.
The Creative Power of My Thoughts
Today, I recognize that I tend to produce in my life what I feel is true for myself. Thoughts have a creative power of their own. If I look closely, I can see my thoughts come to life. I create the possibility of what I would like by first experiencing it in my mind. I will visualize what I would like to have in my life in my mind's eye. I will accept what I see in my inner eye as being there for me, and I will fully participate in my vision as if it were mine. I will be specific about what I see, smell, feel, and I will accept my inner vision as fully as possible. I will enjoy my vision, then let it go and move on in my day, releasing it with no thought of controlling it further. I will let it happen, if it is right for me, in God's time.
All good things are possible for me.
- Tian Dayton PhD
Pocket Sponsor - Book - Quote
We may have empathy for your situation but we will not pity you. We know that pitying you leads to you pitying yourself which leads to mind-affecting chemicals. Rather than pity you, if you need an attitude adjustment, it's very likely a fellow group member will let you know.
Attitudes are contagious. Is mine worth catching?
"Walk Softly and Carry a Big Book" - Book
Don't 'people please', 'Higher Power Please.'
Time for Joy - Book - Quote
Today I know that I have done the best I can with my life. Today I know that I am at choice, and what I choose right now creates new memories. Today I choose to continue to do the very best.
Alkiespeak - Book - Quote
They take good scotch, put juice, soda, bitters and God knows what in it, shake it up, stick an umbrella in it - That's alcohol abuse. - Anon.
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. I will be back looking for Lin and others.