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Post by majestyjo on Aug 6, 2017 3:52:36 GMT -5
August 6
"Stomp, Scram, Spit, Cry," a friend said. "Just don't go numb again. Maybe what you're really angry about is that you've been dead longer than Abe Lincoln, and now you're finally coming back to life."
There's a price to pay for passion. We need to feel our emotions.
Action:
Pay attention to how you feel: what you love, dislike, hate, enjoy. Pay attention to what grabs your heart, what interests you. Discover who you are, not who you think you should be.
You are reading from the book:
52 Weeks of Conscious Contact by Melody Beattie
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 7, 2017 21:14:45 GMT -5
August 7
Aloneness and Quality Time
There are many ways to be good to ourselves. Here are just a few:
At the beginning of each day, we can think about what we'd like to accomplish. This can be a routine household chore, a professional objective, or a living principle we'd like to work on.
As our day unfolds, we can engage in an enjoyable diversion or work on a pet project. Often, these activities clear our minds and free us to think more calmly about matters which trouble us.
In the evening, we may want to review the day's events, and our reactions to them, with a friend. Or, we may simply want to sit quietly and allow our thoughts to wander as they will. Keeping a journal at these times is a helpful tool for self-discovery. By recording our reactions and thoughts as they arise, we often get a better perspective on ourselves as well as our experiences.
TODAY I will be good to myself. I will find something I enjoy doing, and I will do it. I will also take time to get to know myself - either by sharing with a trusted friend or by writing my thoughts in a journal.
You are reading from the book:
The Reflecting Pond by Liane Cordes
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 8, 2017 11:56:59 GMT -5
August 8
When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but really loves you, then you become real.
--Margery Wilson
Intimacy with another is a necessary risk if we're to know love. This means loving enough to let someone in on our most hidden parts, daring to share the awful truths about ourselves. When we hold a dreaded memory within, or fail to disclose our darkest secret, we're haunted by the fear that another's love is both conditional and long gone if the truth about us is revealed.
Though seldom remembered, one of the greatest tributes we can give one another is full expression of who we were, who we are, and who we hope to become. During any single moment, we are a composite of feelings, memories, and projections. Our reality is many faceted, and being intimate requires that we enrich each other's lives with the full expression of ourselves.
Being real is courageous; it takes a decision and practice, and it is demanded if we're to know love.
You are reading from the book:
Worthy of Love by Karen Casey
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 9, 2017 20:55:31 GMT -5
August 9
The crow that mimics a cormorant gets drowned.
--Japanese proverb
When we are young we are vulnerable to the images of success that surround us - in sports, in politics, and in our social life. We watch our heroines and heroes perform, and we strive to emulate them. When the cormorant dives from a hundred feet, we'd love to follow.
As we get older, many of us don't manage to find out who we really are because we've been too busy trying to imitate others - in our dress, our way of talking, our business deals, our preferences, and our tastes. We often aped those who were considered "with it" at the time.
It's healthy to have role models, but they should reflect our true, emerging selves, and not be at the other end of the spectrum. As crows, we'd look silly diving from a hundred feet. Our challenge in recovery is to find out who we are and who we can be and go after that with all our energy. There's nothing wrong with being a crow.
I want to strive with all my heart to be myself.
You are reading from the book:
Answers in the Heart by Anonymous
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 10, 2017 13:40:27 GMT -5
August 10
It is a long baptism into the seas of humankind, my daughter. Better immersion than to live untouched.
--Tillie Olsen
We have each had days when we preferred hiding under the covers, avoiding life at all costs. And in times gone by, we did just that, sometimes too frequently. What we didn't always know, and what we still forget on occasion, is that we have a ready and willing Partner who will join us in every pursuit.
The more fully we commit ourselves to one another and to all our experiences, the closer we will come to the very serenity we long for. Serenity accompanies our increasing understanding of life's many mysteries. It's easy to cheat ourselves out of the prizes any day offers us. Fear fosters inertia, leaving us separate, alone, even more afraid. But we have an appointment with life. And our appointment will bring us to the place of full understanding, the place where we'll be certain, forever after, that all is well. And that life is good.
Today's appointments are part of the bigger plan for my life. I will face them, enjoy them, and reap their rewards.
You are reading from the book:
Each Day a New Beginning by Karen Casey
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 11, 2017 20:09:25 GMT -5
August 11
God give us a mind that can or can't believe, but not even God can make us believe.... You have to believe first before you can pray.
--Harriet Arnow
Sometimes it's difficult to focus on our Higher Power after a hard day at work, after an argument with a loved one, after the frustrating experience of a flat tire, long bank line, or after any of the other nuisances that are part of each and every day. "Why me?" we may cry out in frustration. On a day like this, it may be easier to believe that a Power greater than ourselves is out to get us.
But God does not choose sides. We have not been singled out for punishment. God is on our side, if we only choose to open our hearts and believe that.
As we reflect back on the events of the day, we need to remember the times we asked God for help and the times we didn't. And we need to believe first - before we pray tonight - that God is there to help us every minute of every day.
Did I ask my Higher Power for help today, or did I decide to "go it alone"? Which do I choose to do?
You are reading from the book:
Night Light by Amy E. Dean
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 12, 2017 19:54:25 GMT -5
August 12
Accepting the past
Noted psychiatrist Carl Jung once said, "If one can accept one's sin, one can live with it. If one cannot accept it, one has to suffer the inevitable consequences." We must come to accept our past acts before they will stop causing us pain.
All the Steps help us do this, but in particular, Steps Four and Five (the inventory Steps) and Steps Eight and Nine (the amends Steps) help. If we attend to these Steps properly, we will no longer regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it.
Am I coming to accept myself?
Higher Power, help me accept the ways I've behaved in the past - and the ways I behave in the present - that cause me pain, so that in your time I may be freed.
You are reading from the book:
Day by Day - Second Edition by Anonymous
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 13, 2017 9:54:27 GMT -5
August 13
The block of granite which was an obstacle in the pathway of the weak becomes a stepping-stone in the pathway of the strong. That block of granite is often nothing more than a decision.
--Thomas Carlyle
Trails through national parks and forests are often clearly marked and well-maintained. But sometimes a heavy snowmelt or downpour can turn a trickling stream into a tricky obstacle that needs to be navigated in order to continue following the trail.
When this happens, hikers can turn around and postpone their hike until another day. They can attempt to create their own trail by rambling through – and possibly destroying – delicate forest undergrowth. They can slog through the water, soaking their footgear and creating discomfort for the rest of the hike. Or they can utilize the resources available to them, such as by positioning large rocks as stepping-stones to cross the stream.
How you navigate the trails of your recovery can be seen in similar terms. You must choose how to navigate these trails, both in times when the footling is good and when it is not. Be like the hiker who thinks first about how to handle the challenges, so you can continue safely along your journey.
Today I will make choices that will keep me on the path of recovery.
You are reading from the book:
52 Weeks of Conscious Contact by Melody Beattie
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 14, 2017 15:50:53 GMT -5
August 14
Reflection for the Day
It was far easier for me to accept my powerlessness over my addiction than it was for me to accept the notion that some sort of Higher Power could accomplish that which I had been unable to accomplish myself. Simply by seeking help and accepting the fellowship of others similarly afflicted, the craving left me. And I realized that if I was doing what I was powerless alone to do, then surely I was doing so by some Power outside my own and obviously greater. Have I surrendered my life into the hands of God?
Today I Pray
May God erase in me the arrogant pride which keeps me from listening. May my unhealthy dependence on chemicals and my clinging dependence on those near by be transformed into reliance on God. Only in this kind of dependence - reliance - on a Higher Power will I find my own transformation.
Today I Will Remember
I am God-dependent.
You are reading from the book:
A Day at a Time (Softcover) by Anonymous
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Post by caressa222 on Aug 15, 2017 21:00:18 GMT -5
August 15
Friendship and Love
Friendships or marriages based on "dire need" or physical security are doomed to fail if each person in the relationship does not grow beyond his or her limited ways of thinking and reacting.
The ideal relationship is one in which each partner strives to grow. It is an ever-expanding commitment, mutually supportive of healthy interdependence. A healthy relationship encourages the seeking of wider mental and spiritual horizons; it is never threatened permanently by them.
TODAY Do I give my loved ones enough room to grow? Do I encourage my friends or mate to do things without me? Am I threatened by change or do I welcome it? Do I have the courage to do things on my own, even if my loved ones do not give me support? Do I have the courage and consideration to share my changes with those I love?
Let the purpose of all marriages and friendships alike be the deepening of the spirit and the enrichment of the soul.
You are reading from the book:
The Reflecting Pond by Liane Cordes
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Post by caressa222 on Aug 17, 2017 18:36:32 GMT -5
August 16
I am determined to maintain the perpendicular position.
--Lucy Stone
Perpendicular lines make right angles; they make possible extensions of both height and breadth. Right angles are weight bearing. We speak of asserting something "squarely," making perpendiculars.
People who speak their minds freely and assert their individuality feel perpendicular; the corners they create, by their points of view, are sturdy and open. Others can use them to build structures on.
It's important to claim the perpendicular, even though we may feel pressured into curved or parallel positions. If we're centered in ourselves, others won't throw us off balance. Each of us needs to find our own center so that we can occupy our own place. Others will recognize us. Together we'll build high and wide.
My remotest ancestors dared to point their spines upright. I'll carry on the project they began.
You are reading from the book:
The Promise of a New Day by Karen Casey and Martha Vanceburg
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Post by caressa222 on Aug 17, 2017 18:37:03 GMT -5
August 17
Quiet Day
This is another day, O Lord.
I don't know what it will bring
For I have not scheduled anything.
If I am to sit still,
Help me to sit quietly.
If I am to rest,
Help me rest patiently.
And if I am to do nothing,
Help me do it serenely.
For it is Your will
For me to be comfortably quiet.
You are reading from the book:
The 12 Step Prayer Book Volume 2 by Bill P. and Lisa D.
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Post by caressa222 on Aug 18, 2017 21:53:27 GMT -5
August 18
Disappointment and Frustration
How can disappointments be opportunities to grow? When we feel thwarted, frustrated or empty it is difficult - but not impossible - to see the positive side of our pain.
Most disappointments come from a sense of failure when our expectations of ourselves or others are not met. If we can work through our initial response or source of frustration that lies within ourselves, we are taking the right steps toward turning our hurts and fears into growth-filled experiences.
Do we have unrealistic expectations of ourselves or approval of us? Have we sold ourselves short by placing our entire self-worth on our jobs, paychecks, or possessions? Have we accepted negative feelings about ourselves, or do we see ourselves as capable human beings?
TODAY I will probe the sources of my self-esteem. I will seek my happiness within myself, not in other people, places, or things.
You are reading from the book:
The Reflecting Pond by Liane Cordes
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 19, 2017 17:09:21 GMT -5
August 19
All We Have Is Now
We can only live now, this moment. We cannot erase the mistakes we made yesterday or bring back the good times we had. We cannot know what tomorrow will require of us, nor can we ensure future security and happiness. Now is what we have, and now is everything.
We can follow our plan now. We can abstain this moment. We can deal with the problems, which confront us today, as best we can, trusting God to guide us. We can be in touch with our Higher Power only in the present.
As we focus on the present moment, we live it deeper, and we derive a satisfaction that we did not know when we were regretting the past and worrying about the future. Whatever happens, now is all I can manage and all I need.
I am grateful for this present moment.
You are reading from the book:
Food for Thought by Elisabeth L.
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 20, 2017 9:40:05 GMT -5
August 20
Our main business is not to see what lies dimly at a distance, but to do what lies clearly at hand.
-- Thomas Carlyle
"Five years down the road," says Jack, "I want to have a new job, an intimate relationship, and a bigger house. I want to be earning more money and feel better about myself." What nice dreams! But what is Jack doing for himself now?
"My relationship is not going well," sighs Sarah. "This isn't the first time I've been told I have the same character defects. Someday I really want to make changes and be in a warm, supportive relationship. Then I'll be happy." But how can Sarah expect to have a wonderful relationship if she doesn't begin her work now?
"My family is so messed up," declares Leslie, a parent. "No one communicates. If we had a bigger house we wouldn't argue so much or be so disorganized. When Bill and I start making good money, we can look for that dream house." But when will Bill and Leslie work on the family problems they're having now?
I can begin to see what lies clearly at hand - not a dream or goal years away from now. All I have is right now. Tonight I can build my future foundations by working on me.
You are reading from the book:
Night Light by Amy E. Dean
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 21, 2017 19:17:14 GMT -5
August 21
Love, and love alone, is capable of giving thee a happier life.
--Ludwig van Beethoven
We are making a response to life's every waking moment; our attitudes formulate the tenor of our responses. When the sun warms our bodies and the flowers tease our nostrils, it may be easy to love everyone and smile. When we have a negative attitude, we may snarl and all too quickly criticize innocent bystanders, as well as friends and family. All we need is to make a simple decision to look with love as far as our eyes can see.
When our hearts are God-centered and filled with love and laughter, we'll find no experience too difficult to handle. No problem will evade its solution for long.
An attitude of love promises us gratitude in abundance. We'll never doubt that all is well when love is at our center.
You are reading from the book:
Worthy of Love by Karen Casey
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 22, 2017 22:00:42 GMT -5
August 22
. . . (the king) can deprive them of the benefit of sun and rain, . . . and they are at the same time pelted from above with great stones, . . . while the roofs of their houses are beaten to pieces.
--Jonathan Swift
How do we punish those momentarily gone wrong? Do we try hurting with words - jab them in the heart with some spear-shaped phrases, slap them in the face with an insult or two? Maybe we like to poison them with a strong dose of silence. Have we tried to make them feel bad by making them feel sorry for us? Do we remind them daily that what went wrong with our lives is really all their fault?
We must remember that we are the rulers of our own lives only, and this knowledge gives us the power to punish only ourselves. It also gives us control over our lives, so that others' actions need not wrong us, and we need not punish.
Have I been punishing someone?
You are reading from the book:
Today's Gift by Anonymous
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 23, 2017 19:05:11 GMT -5
August 23
You had better live your best and act your best and think your best today, for today is the sure preparation for tomorrow and all the other tomorrows that follow.
--Harriet Martineau
The word "sanity" is derived from the Latin word sanitas, which means "health." In our group, we think of health as wholeness of mind, body, and spirit.
One way to achieve health and wholeness is by living one day at a time. To do this successfully, we need to realize we cannot undo a single act we performed or unsay any harsh words spoken in the past. No matter how much we may regret or re-feel yesterday's painful experiences, there is nothing we can do to change what happened. The past is forever beyond our control.
The same thing is true of the future. No matter how much we may worry and fret over it, very few of us can predict what tomorrow will bring. We can only prepare for a hope-filled future by living fully and confidently today.
TODAY is all I have. Let me make the most of it.
You are reading from the book:
The Reflecting Pond by Liane Cordes
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Post by caressa222 on Aug 25, 2017 1:19:03 GMT -5
August 24
Reflection for the Day
In a very real sense, we are imprisoned by our inability or unwillingness to reach out for help to a Power greater than ourselves. But in time, we pray to be relieved of the bondage of self, so that we can better do God's will. In the words of Ramakrishna, "The sun and moon are not mirrored in cloudy waters, thus the Almighty cannot be mirrored in a heart that is obsessed by the idea of 'me and mine.'" Have I set myself free from the prison of self-will and pride which I myself have built? Have I accepted freedom?
Today I Pray
May the word freedom take on new meanings for me, not just "freedom from" my addiction, but "freedom to" overcome it. Not just freedom from the slavery of self-will, but freedom to hear and carry out the will of God.
Today I Will Remember
Freedom from means freedom to.
You are reading from the book:
A Day at a Time (Softcover) by Anonymous
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Post by majestyjo on Aug 26, 2017 19:55:29 GMT -5
August 25
Believe that life is worth living and your belief will help create the act.
--William James
Step Two speaks of believing. For many years, we had given up believing in ourselves, in a Higher Power, and in others. Now our program tells us to believe in love. We are lovable, and we can love others without hurting them.
Of course, believing is an important part of recovery. To believe means to put aside our doubts. To believe means to have hope. Believing makes the road a little smoother. So, believing lets the healing happen a little faster.
All of this is how we get ready to let in the care of our Higher Power.
Prayer for the Day
I pray for the courage to believe. I'll not let doubt into my heart. I can recover. I can give myself totally to this simple program.
Action for the Day
I'll list four times doubt got in my way. And I'll think of what I can do to not let that happen again.
You are reading from the book:
Keep It Simple by Anonymous
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. I will be back looking for Lin and others.