Thoughtfood for Sunday, November 1, 2009

Faith

Believe more deeply. 

Hold your face up to the Light,

even though for the moment you do not see.
- As Bill Sees It,  p. 3 

From the Big Book:

"By March 1976, when this edition went to the printer, the total worldwide membership of Alcoholics Anonymous was conservatively estimated at more than 1,000,000 with almost 28,000 groups meeting in over 90 countries." (In 1995, over 89,000 groups with A.A. activity in 141 countries; one-third are women, one-fifth, 30 and under.)

c. 1976, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, Foreward To Third Edition. p xxii.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may feel sure of some response to my prayers. 

 I pray that I may be content with whatever form that response takes."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 1.

Quote for the day:

"When you have come to the edge of all light that you know and are about to drop off into the darkness of the unknown, Faith is knowing one of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on or you will be taught to fly."  __

My share: I trust we have all survived Halloween.  Reaching the last day of October, brings to a close for me thirteen years of continuous sobriety. I received my XIII sobriety chip from my sponsor, Dave E who recently celebrated XXIV.  This program works.  Be Good To You, Dave.

A Member Shares:  
Hi all, I'm Peyton and I'm a grateful alcoholic.  Faith was truly lacking in me by the time I got to AA.  I was at the point that I doubted whether my Higher Power could help me or even if I would let my HP help me.  In any case, the day I came to this room, I was at the end of my rope.  I knew that if I didn't get help soon, I was going to be dead, and if I couldn't stop drinking, I wanted death sooner rather than later.  My prayer was the same as many other alkies I've listened to, "Help me, God!"  I'd never thought about AA being on line and at that moment, I felt compelled to look on line for some kind of AA help.  This room was the first thing I saw, so in I came, scared, desperate for a drink, and trying to believe that it could get better.  The welcome I received, the love, prayers and support were overwhelming.  I felt at home, with people who actually knew what my life was like.  That moment helped me to start having faith again -- when the only three words I could utter were, "Help me, God!"  And, Wow!  Help me, He did!  Some days are struggles and it's hard to believe things will get better, yet my faith is still there to remind me that my HP is faithful and will help me get through whatever happens.  Thanks for allowing me to share.

Thoughtfood for Monday, November 2, 2009

Powerlessness

Our admissions of personal powerlessness

 finally turn out to be firm bedrock
upon which happy and purposeful lives may be built.
We know that little good can come to any alcoholic who joins AA
unless he has first accepted his devastating weakness and all its consequences.
- Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions,  p. 21

From the Big Book:

"The basic principles of the A.A. program, it appears, hold good for individuals with many different lifestyles, just as the program has brought recovery to those of many different nationalities.  The Twelve Steps that summarize the program may be called los Doce Pasos in one country, les Douze Etapes in another, but they trace exactly the same path to recovery that was blazed by the earliest members of Alcoholics Anonymous."

c. 1976, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, Foreward To Third Edition, p. xxii.

Prayer for the day:

I pray that I may keep pouring out what I receive.  I pray that I may keep the stream clear and flowing."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 2.

Quote for the day:

"Hatred and anger are powerless when met with kindness." __Anonymous

My share:

First, a correction:  My sponsor is actually XXIII years sober, a few months shy of XXIV, I can't count so good.  ;-)

Powerlessness...I found that by admitting my powerlessness over alcohol, people, places and things, I became empowered to change the things I can, the things within myself that make me who and what I am.   An attitude of gratitude is impossible without an admission of powerlessness and a humble assessment of self worth.  Be Good To You, Dave

Thoughtfood for Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Sponsors

On the spur of the moment I said,

"Why don't you be my sponsor?"

and on the spur of the moment he said to me,

"I'll be your sponsor if you'll be my sponsor."

And I said, "I don't know if they'll allow that."

But we decided to try it and it worked out.

He calls me because I'm his sponsor

and I call him because he's my sponsor

so I guess we call each other twice as often.

We're still sponsoring each other. 

It's been going on for twenty-seven years.
- Dr. Paul O., The Best of the Grapevine [Vol. 3],  p.129

From the Big Book:

"In spite of the great increase in the size and the span of this Fellowship, at its core it remains simple and personal.  Each day, somewhere in the world, recovery begins when one alcoholic talks with another alcoholic, sharing experience, strength, and hope."

c. 1976, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, Foreward To Third Edition, p. xxii. 

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may will to have God's power.  I pray that I may keep praying for the strength I need." 

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 3.

Quote for the day: (blank)

My share:

 I couldn't find a quote about sponsors that addressed our A.A. version of sponsorship. Perhaps I should create one.

"An A.A. sponsor is like a life preserver, if you don't reach out to grab one, you will surely drown." 

Be Good To You, Dave

Thoughtfood for Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Defenseless

We are without defense against the first drink.

The almost certain consequences that follow

taking even a glass of beer

do not crowd into the mind to deter us. . .

There is a complete failure of the kind of defense

that keeps one from putting his hand on a hot stove.
- Alcoholics Anonymous,  p.24

From the Big Book:

"The Doctor's Opinion: We of  Alcoholics Anonymous believe that the reader will be interested in the medical estimate of the play of recovery described in this book.  Convincing testimony must surely come from medical men who have had experience with the suffering of our members and have witnessed our return to health.  I well-known doctor, chief physician at a nationally prominent hospital specializing in alcoholic and drug addiction, gave Alcoholics Anonymous this letter:"

c. 1936, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, p. xxiii.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may not always seek pleasure as a goal.  I pray that I may be content with the happiness that comes when I do the right thing."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 4.

Quote for the day:

"Even the most rational approach to ethics is defenseless if there isn't the will to do what is right."  __Alexander Solzhenitsyn [Russian novelist, Nobel Prize for literature (1970), b. 1918.]

My share:

I always tried to be an ethical person.  My alcoholism often compromised that intention. But with my will to change and the direction of the will of my higher power, the ability to be ethical and honest has been greatly enhanced.  Still a  lot of work to do. Be Good To You, Dave

Thoughtfood for Thursday, November 5, 2009

Gratitude

When brimming with gratitude,

one's heartbeat must surely result in outgoing love,

the finest emotion that we can ever know.
- As Bill Sees It,  p. 37

From the Big Book:

"To whom it may concern:

I have specialized in the treatment of alcoholism for many years.

In late 1934 I attended a patient who, though he had been a competent businessman of good earning capacity, was an alcoholic of a type I had come to regard as hopeless.

In the course of his third treatment he acquired certain ideas concerning a possible means of recovery.  As part of his rehabilitation he commenced to present his conceptions to other alcoholics, impressing upon them that they must do likewise with still others.  This has become the basis of a rapidly growing fellowship of these men and their families. This man and over one hundred others appear to have recovered."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, p. xxiii.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may be used as a channel to express the Divine Love.  I pray that I may so live as to bring God's spirit closer to the world."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 5.

Quote for the day:

"Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed.  Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude."  __Dennis Waitley (American Speaker and Author, b. 1933.)

My share:

It is with gratitude that I pass my share to Ramona today.  Be Good To You, Dave

A MEMBER SHARES:
My name is Ramona, and I am a recovering alcoholic.  Like so many things I heard around here when I was new, I had no meaningful understanding of gratitude.  Many of the words that I thought I knew the meaning to have taken on new, different and deeper meanings since coming to AA and working the Steps.  The longer I stay sober, remain teachable, and work the Steps, the more is being revealed.  Gratitude is one of those words whose meaning has changed.  It is no longer how I look to the outside world that I am most grateful for, or how much stuff I have or don't have, it is the inside stuff that is invaluable, that I am grateful for.  I didn't believe I had much to be grateful for when I got back here.  Due to my choice to drink and my choices while drinking, I suffered consequences beyond my comprehension.  I had lost everything I thought mattered, and sure didn't see anything to be grateful about.  But one thing I did have was the gift of desperation, and through prior knowledge, I knew AA was the only hope for me.  Today, I am grateful for that desperate state of being I was in when I got back here, because it was the foundation that allowed this program to work for me this time, one day at a time.  Through this program, the things I am grateful for have changed.  Today, I am most grateful for my close AA friends who never gave up on me, those who are still there for me when I am down on myself, and need to share the pain, or the truth, or just cry -- those are the friends I also share the good turns and the blessings with.  We share life's ups and downs with each other as fellow alcoholics.  They are true friends in this Fellowship, people who have loved and love me until I can love myself.  I am grateful I have new principles to live by.

Thoughtfood for Friday, November 6, 2009

Anger

If we were to live, we had to be free of anger.

The grouch and the brainstorm were not for us.

They may be the luxury of normal men, but for alcoholics,

these things are poison.

- Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 66

From the Big Book:

"I personally know scores of cases who were of the type with whom other methods had failed completely.  These facts appear to be of extreme medical importance because of the extraordinary possibilities of rapid growth inherent in this group they may mark a new epoch in the annals of alcoholism.  These men may well have a remedy for thousands of such situations. 

You may rely absolutely on anything they say about themselves.  Very truly yours, William D. Silkworth, M. D.

c. 1976, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, pp. xxiii-xxiv.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may be used as a channel to express the Divine Love.  I pray that I may so live as to bring God's spirit closer to the world."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 6.

Quote for the day:

"The more anger towards the past you carry in your heart, the less capable you are of loving in the present."  __Barbara De Angelis

My share:

I encounter, almost daily, moments of anger, frustration, intolerance, hatred, bigotry and avarice.  Fortunately, none of those things occur in my heart.  They are in evidence in the people around me, on the road, in the store, at school.  I pray for the day when everyone finds their own inner peace. Be Good To You, Dave.

Thoughtfood for Saturday, November 7, 2009

Forgiveness 

Forgiveness of self and forgiveness of others

are just two currents in the same river,

both hindered or shut off completely by the dam of resentment.

Once the dam is lifted, both currents can flow.
- Daily Reflections, p. 146

From the Big Book:

"The physician who, at our request, gave us this letter, has been kind enough to enlarge upon his views in another statement which follows.  In this statement he confirms what we who have suffered alcoholic torture must believe--that the body of the alcoholic is quite as abnormal as his mind.  It did not satisfy us to be told that we could not control our drinking just because we were maladjusted to life, that  we were in full flight from reality, or were outright mental defectives.  These things were true to some extent, in fact, to a considerable extent with some of us.  But we are sure that our bodies were sickened as well.  In our belief, any picture of the alcoholic which leaves out this physical factor is incomplete."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, p.xxiv.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may try to let God's power act through me today. 

I pray that I may get rid of those blocks which keep His power from me." 

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 6.

Quote for the day:

"Without forgiveness life is governed by an endless cycle of resentment and retaliation."  __Roberto Assagioli

My share:

Forgive and forget.  I've heard that advice more times than I can count. When I was drinking, I was more likely to forget the details that predicated a resentment than I was to forgive the object of my ire. Times, and I, have changed.  Be Good To You, Dave

 Thoughtfood for Sunday, November 8, 2009  

Turning Point

Half measures availed us nothing. 

We stood at the turning point.

We asked his protection and care with complete abandon.
- Alcoholics Anonymous,  p. 59
 

Thoughtfood for Monday, November 9, 2009

Values

I stood off and took a long look at life and the values I found in it:

I saw a paradox, that he who loses his life does indeed find it.

The more you give, the more you get.

The less you think of yourself the more of a person you become.
- Experience, Strength and Hope, p. 431

From the Big Book:

"The doctor writes: 

The subject presented in this book seems to be of paramount importance to those afflicted with alcoholic addiction. 

I say this after many years experience as Medical Director of one of the oldest hospitals in the country treating alcoholic and drug addiction.

There was, therefore, a sense of real satisfaction when I was asked to contribute a few words on a subject which is covered in such masterly detail in these pages."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, pp. xxiv-xxv.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may think of God as my Friend.  I pray that I may feel that I am working for Him and with Him."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 9.

Quote for the day:

"As we become ever more diverse, we must work harder to unite around our common values and our common humanity."  __Bil Clinton  (42nd US President,  b. 1946)

My share:

My values didn't change that much when I got sober.  But, I did become conscious of how badly I had been ignoring them.

Be Good To You, Dave.

Thoughtfood for Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Pain

Indeed pain is one of our greatest teachers.

Though I still find it difficult to accept today's pain and anxiety

with any degree of serenity -- I can, if I try hard,

give thanks for present pain nevertheless.

I find the willingness to do this by

contemplating the lessons learned

from past suffering.
- The Language of the Heart,  p.  272

From the Big Book:

"We doctors have realized for a long time that some form of moral psychology was of urgent importance to alcoholics, but its 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.

Many years ago one of the leading contributors to this book came under our care in this hospital and while here he acquired some ideas which he put into practical application at once."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonyomous, The Doctor's Opinion, p, xxv.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may know that there can be no failure with God. 

I pray that with His help I may live a more victorious life."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 10.

Quote for the day:

"Pain makes man think.  Thought makes man wise.  Wisdom makes life endurable."  __John Patrick

My share:

For me, the lesson I get from past pains is mostly how to survive the pain that is yet to come. Be Good To You, Dave
 

Progress

If we ask, God will certainly forgive our derelictions.

But in no case does He render us white as snow . . .

That is something we are supposed to be

willing to work toward ourselves.

He asks only that we try as best we know how

to make progress in the building of character.
- As Bill Sees It, p.204

From the Big Book:

"Later, he requested the privilege of being allowed to tell his story to other patients here and with some misgiving, we consented.  The cases we have followed through have been most interesting; in fact, many of them are amazing. The unselfishness of these men as we have come to know them, the entire absence of profit motive, and their community spirit, is indeed inspiring to one who has labored long and wearily in this alcoholic field.  They believe in themselves, and still more in the Power which pulls chronic alcoholics back from the gates of death."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, p.xxv.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may not need to see the whole design of my life. 

I pray that I may trust the Designer."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 11.

Quote for the day:

"The perfecting of ones self is the fundamental base of all progress and all moral development."  Confucius  (Chinese Teacher, Philosopher, and Political Theorist,  551-179 BC)

My share:

This is not a quick fix program. It is a life sentence of gradual progress toward a better self.  Be Good To You, Dave

Thoughtfood for Thursday, November 12, 2009

Trust

When I put my faith in the spiritual power of the program,

when I trust others to teach me

what I have to do to have a better life,

I find that I can trust myself to do what is necessary.
- Daily Reflections,  p. 226

From the Big Book:

"Of course an alcoholic ought to be freed from his physical craving for liquor, and this often requires a definite hospital procedure, before psychological measures can be of maximum benefit."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, pp. xxv-xxvi.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may send my voiceless cry for help out into the void.  I pray that I may feel certain that it will be heard somewhere, somehow."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 12.

Quote for the day:

"Hew who does not trust enough, will not be trusted." __Lao Tzu (Founder of Taoism, 600BC - 531BC)

My share: I pass my share today to Jonath.  Be Good To You, Dave

A MEMBER SHARES:
Good morning everyone, my name is Jonath and I am a recovering alcoholic.  When I came to AA, trust was broken left, right and center.  I couldn't be trusted with anything.  All too many times, I had lied about my drinking.  I had hidden things from friends, family and work.  All of my relationships had suffered as a result.  Most importantly though, I couldn't trust myself anymore.  I felt a worthless human being, unworthy of trust.  I was lucky.  I found AA.  AA helped me to regain trust and confidence in myself and trust that my Higher Power was going to guide me along the path towards recovery.  With that, came the trust of others.  I came back from the edge; back into a world where I could be responsible again and where I could earn trust once more.  I put my trust in HP.  HP didn't fail me.  And whilst it was not always easy, people came to trust me once again as a friend, a son, a colleague.  I couldn't have done this on my own.  I have AA and the Twelve Steps to thank for this, my sponsors for their immeasurable patience, my face-to-face group, and AA On line.  So if you are new, or coming back, have some faith, and place your trust in HP and AA.  Thank you for listening.

Thoughtfood for Friday, November 13, 2009

Results of Prayer

As he goes along with his process of prayer,

he begins to add up the results.

If he persists, he will almost surely find more serenity,

 more tolerance, less fear, and less anger.

He will acquire a quiet courage,

the kind that doesn't strain him.

He can look at so-called failure

and success for what they really are.

Problems and calamity will begin to mean instruction,

rather than destruction.

He will feel freer and saner.
- The Language of the Heart,  p. 241

From the Big Book:

"We believe, and so suggested a few years ago, that the action of alcohol on these chronic alcoholics is a manifestation of an allergy; that the phenomenon of craving is limited to their class and never occurs in the average temperate drinker.  These allergic types can never safely use alcohol in any form at all, and once having formed the habit and found they cannot break it, once having lost their self-confidence, their reliance upon things human, their problems pile up on them and become astonishingly  difficult to solve."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, p. xxvi.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may go to God today for those things which I need to help me live.  I pray that I may find real peace of mind."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 13.

Quote for the day:

"The greatest prayer is patience."   __Buddha (Founder of Buddism, 563-483 BC)

My share:

I didn't hold much hope that prayer would work.  But, they told me to fake it until I make it, so I prayed.  Oddly enough, much of what I have prayed for has been granted.  Seldom did the prayer get answered in the way I had expected and mostly the understanding of that result was only noticed in passing. My Higher Power has a subtle voice.   Be Good To You, Dave 

Thoughtfood for Saturday, November 14, 2009

An Answer

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!
- Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 181

From the Big Book:

"Frothy emotional appeal seldom suffices.  The message which can interest and hold these alcoholic people must have depth and weight. In nearly all cases, their ideals must be grounded in a power greater than themselves, if they are to re-create their lives."  

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, p.xxvi.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may try to follow God's design for today.  I pray that I may have the sense of Divine Intent in what I do today."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 14.

Quote for the day:

"Sometimes the answer to prayer is not that it changes life, but that it changes you."  __James Dillet Freeman

My share: At the risk of sounding like a cliche', God always answers my prayers, but sometimes the answer is no.  I can live with that.  When the answer is no, the prayer was most likely too much about me. Be Good To You, Dave

Fear

It was an evil and corroding thread;

the fabric of our existence was shot through with it.

Thoughtfood for Monday, November 16, 2009

Meditation

A clear light seems to fall upon us all -- when we open our eyes.

Since our blindness is caused by our own defects,

we must first realize what they are.

Constructive meditation is the first requirement for each new step

in our spiritual growth.
- As Bill Sees It,  p. 10

From the Big Book:

"Men and women drink essentially because they like the effect produced by alcohol. The sensation is so elusive that, while they admit it is injurious, they cannot after a time differentiate the true from the false.  To them, their alcoholic life seems the only normal one.  They are restless, irritable and discontented, unless they can again experience the sense of ease and comfort which comes at once by taking a few drinks--drinks which they see others taking with impunity."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, pp. xxvi-xxvii.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may be in accord with the members of my group. 

 I pray that I may feel the strength of a consecrated group."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 16.

Quote for the day:

"Forbear to judge, for we are sinners all.

Close up his eyes and draw the curtain close;

And let us all to meditation."

__William Shakespeare (1564-1616)

My share:

Some days my meditation is highly formalized. I turn off the TV, the computer, and the phone. I sit still on the floor with my legs crossed, my eyes closed, and incense burning.  Other days is more on the run.  But thirty seconds of quiet reflection is better than nothing. Like a cat nap, brief meditation is invigorating.  Be Good To You, Dave

Thoughtfood for Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Discovery

AA has accomplished so many things in my life today.

It has given me my sanity and an all-around sense of balance.

Now willing to listen and take suggestions,

I have found that the process of discovering who I really am

begins with knowing who I really don't want to be.
- Alcoholics Anonymous,  pp. 456-457

From the Big Book:

"After they have succumbed to the desire again, as so many do, and the phenomenon of craving develops, they pass through the well-known stages of a spree, emerging remorseful, with a firm resolution not to drink again.  This is repeated over and over, and unless this person can experience an entire psychic change there is very little hope of his recovery."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The  Doctor's Opinion, p. xxvii.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may not desire the world's applause.  I pray that I may not seek rewards for doing what I believe is right."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 17.

Quote for the day:

"Learning is the discovery that something is possible."  __Fritz Perls   (German Psychoanalyst, 1893-1970)

My share:

Discovering that there was and is a solution for the problems in my life was an eye opening experience, to say the least.  I am daily awed by the power of this program.  Be Good To You, Dave.

Thoughtfood for Thursday, November 19, 2009

Faith

The foundation stone of freedom from fear is that of faith:

 a faith that, despite all worldly appearances to the contrary,

causes me to believe that I live in a universe that makes sense.
- As Bill Sees It,  p. 51

From the Big Book:

"Faced with this problem, if a doctor is honest with himself, he must sometimes feel his own inadequacy.  Although he gives all that is in him, it often is not enough.  One feels that something more than human power is needed to produce the essential psychic change.  Though the aggregate of recoveries resulting from psychiatric effort is considerable, we physicians must admit we have made little impression upon the problem as a whole.  Many types do not respond to the ordinary psychological approach."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, p. xxvii.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may not keep my eyes forever downcast.  I pray that I may set my sights on higher things."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 19.

Quote for the day:

"Faith is a knowledge within the heart, beyond the reach of proof." __Kahlil Gibran  (Lebanese born American Essayist, Novelist, and Poet  1883-1931.)

My share: I pass my share to Jane.  Be Good To You, Dave

A MEMBER SHARES:
Hi, I'm Jane, an alcoholic.  When I came to program, I didn't have a lot of faith in anything much.  Faith!  I could royally stuff things up with monotonous regularity, and faith in just about anything bad happening to me, I manifested it and a lot happened.  When I got to program, I saw people with faith and was beyond cynical.  But I did get hope from my first meeting, and hope kept me going back for some time.  Slowly, I gained faith in a few more people in program.  I was raised with strong faith.  My parents dropped us off to Sunday school each week. then drove home.  I asked them about it once, but never got an answer.  I did get my answers in program -- learning to trust, then let go.  As I slowly worked Steps, I found my own personal faith heavily buried but not forgotten.  My faith has grown in my recovery, but I do enjoy fighting with God.  I'm good at it, and it's a learning curve for me.  Right now, I'm ready to walk to the complaint department and let God have a good serve.  I figure I'll feel better and get a good whack upside the head with the Big Book then get over it and move on.  I've been loved and protected at every step I've taken in program whether or not I see it.  Acknowledgment isn't important.  Step Three shows me that my Higher Power is firmly in my life.  I just need to allow the journey to unfold in God's time, not mine.  Today, I'm focusing on peace and happiness.  They're available in every moment.  Peace in every step.  We shall walk hand in hand.  There are no political solutions to spiritual problems.  Remember: If the Creator put it there, it is in the right place.  The soul would have no rainbow if the eyes had no tears.

Alternatives

We were in a position where life was becoming impossible,

and if we had passed into the region

from which there is no return through human aid.

we had but two alternatives: 

One was to go on to the bitter end,

blotting out the consciousness of

our intolerable situation as best we could,

and the other, to accept spiritual help.
- Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 25.

Thoughtfood for Saturday, November 21, 2009

Any Lengths

Remember it was agreed at the beginning

we would go to any lengths for victory over alcohol.
- Alcoholics Anonymous,  p .76

From the Big Book:

"There are many situations which arise out of the phenomenon of craving which cause men to make the supreme sacrifice rather than continue to fight.

The classification of alcoholics seems most difficult, and in much detail is outside the scope of this book.  There are, of course, the psychopaths who are emotionally unstable.  We are all familiar with this type.  They are always "going on the wagon for keeps."  They are over-remorseful and make many resolutions, but never a decision."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, p. xxviii.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may be more comfortable in my way of living.  I pray that I may feel more at home and at peace within myself."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 21.

Quote for the day:

"Don't get too comfortable with who you are at any given time - you may miss the opportunity to become who you want to be."

_Jon Bon Jove (American Musician and Actor b. 1962.) 

My share:

I pass my share today to Jessica.  Be Good To You, Dave.

A MEMBER SHARES:
My name is Jessica, and I am a grateful recovering alcoholic.  Good to be in a meeting today.  It's 1:30 or so here in China, and 'going to any lengths for sobriety' is a great topic.  There are no meetings here for hundreds of miles but I have the Internet and that makes it all perfect.  When I was new, as others have shared, I, too, was taken to the kitchen, and shown what to do for coffee and food.  I was given a set of keys as well.  It was a big meeting, and we needed to prepare a lot of coffee, decaf and food -- it's New York AA.  I was so happy when they gave me the keys to the room.  I had 7 days or so and I thought they could see I had management potential.  I was walking around my first two weeks of sobriety, always trying to find the boss of AA.  I wanted to get in good with the boss because I was afraid I'd be kicked out if I didn't.  No one else had wanted me around for a long while.  I never found the boss of AA -- thank goodness, we don't have one.  However, I did stick around to get sober.  It was hard to learn how to do things differently at first.especially things I didn't want  to do.  It was from my sponsors that I really learned what 'going to any lengths' meant.  My sponsor showed up for me every time she promised something, she did it, and she showed up.  No one in my life had ever done that.  I didn't trust her of course, and assumed she wouldn't show up most of the time.  But she surprised me, over and over again.  No matter what was going on, she was there when she said she would be.  It was from her and from others here in AA that I learned how to show up, one day at a time for myself, for others, and eventually became a sponsor myself.  Thanks for my sobriety folks, it's my 18th AA anniversary in a week, and I feel so glad to be here.

Thoughtfood for Sunday, November 22, 2009

Indecision

In thinking about our day we may face indecision.

We may not be able to determine which course to take.

Here we ask God for inspiration,

an intuitive thought or a decision.

We relax and take it easy. 

We don't struggle.

We are often surprised how the right answers come

after we have tried this for a while.
- Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 68

From the Big Book:

"There is the type of man who in unwilling to admit that he cannot take a drink.  He plans various ways of drinking.  He changes he brand or his environment.  There is the type who always believes that after being entirely free from alcohol for a period of time he can take a drink without danger.  There is the manic-depressive type, who is, perhaps, the least understood by his friends, and about whom a whole chapter could be written."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, 3rd ed.,p. xxviii.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that my day may be brightened by some little act of charity.  I pray that I may try today to overcome the self-centeredness that makes be bored."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 22.

Quote for the day:

"When you do not know what you are doing and what you are doing is the best - that is inspiration."  __Robert Bresson

My share:

Everyday I ask HP for inspiration about what to write here.  I seldom know what I am going to say until I start writing.  Sometimes the inspiration comes, sometimes it doesn't.  No dice today.  Be Good To You, Dave.

Thoughtfood for Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Growing Up

The man with the grown-up brain and the childish emotions

-- vanity, self-interest, false pride,

jealousy, longing for social approval,

to name a few -- becomes a prime candidate for alcohol.

. . . that is a definition of alcoholism;

a state of being in which the emotions

have failed to grow to the stature of the intellect.
- Experience, Strength and Hope, p. 423

From the Big Book:

"The only relief is abstinence. This immediately precipitates us into a seething cauldron of debate.  Much has been written pro and con, but among physicians, the general opinion seems to be that most chronic alcoholics are doomed.  What is the solution?  Perhaps I can best answer that by relating one of my experiences."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, 3rd Ed., pp. xxviii-xxix.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that today I may do the next thing, the unselfish thing, the loving thing.  I pray that I may be content with doing small things as long as they are right."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 24.

Quote for the day:

"You grow up the day you have your first real laugh - at yourself."

__Ethel Barrymore

My share:

Acknowledging mistakes in judgment I have made in the past that have brought me to this place in my life is only the first step in understanding what to do now to improve my tomorrow. I know that sobriety does not guarantee success in life, but it is a step in the right direction.  Be Good To You, Dave 

Thoughtfood for Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Keeping It Simple

Here are thousands of men and women, worldly indeed.

They flatly declare that since they have come to believe

in a Power greater than themselves,

to take a certain attitude toward that Power,

and to do certain simple things,

there has been a revolutionary change in their way of living and thinking.
- Alcoholics Anonymous,  p. 50

From the Big Book:

"About one year prior to this experience a man was brought in to be treated for chronic alcoholism.  He had but partially recovered from a gastric hemorrhage and seemed to be a case of pathological mental deterioration.  He had lost everything worthwhile in life and was only living, one might say, to drink.  He frankly admitted and believed that for him there was no hope.  Following the elimination of alcohol, there was found to be no permanent brain injury.  He accepted the plan outlined in this book."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, 3rd ed., p. xxix.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may feel the divine unrest.  I pray that my soul may find its rest in God."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 25.

Quote for the day:

"Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated." __Confucius  (China's most famous teacher, philosopher, and political theorist, 551-479 BC)

My share:

I pass my share today to Mikey.  Be Good To You, Dave

A MEMBER SHARES:
I'm Mikey, just an alcoholic.  I'm not all that good on history -- AA, or otherwise.  I forget; part of being or getting older.  I do know that the more I tried to find out how this thing works, and the more I got involved in who's, how's, why's, and wherefores, the harder it was for me to stay sober.  I found when I stopped worrying about such stuff the program came easier.  I could work it.  So if you are an AA historian, that's cool.  But I just need to remember as Dr. Bob said, "Let's not louse this thing up.  Let's keep it simple!"  I need to remember to be honest, stay sober, and never forget I'm just a drunk.  Mikey loves you all, God bless! 

Joy of Living

The joy of living we really have,

even under pressure and difficulty. . .

There is scarcely any form of trouble and misery

which has not been overcome among us.
- Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 15

 

Thoughtfood for Friday, November 27, 2009

Self-restraint

We enjoy certain inherent advantages

which should make our task of self-restraint relatively easy.

There is no really good reason for anyone to object

if a great many drunks get sober.

Nearly everyone can agree this is a good thing.

If, in the process, we are forced to

develop a certain amount of honesty,

humility, and tolerance, who is going to kick about that?
- Twelve Concepts for World Service,p. 69 

From the Big Book:

"When I need a mental uplift, I often think of another case brought in by a physician prominent in New York.  The patient had made his own diagnosis, and deciding his situation hopeless, had hidden in a deserted barn determined to die.  He was rescued by a search party, and, in desperate condition, brought to me.  Following his physical rehabilitation, he had a talk with me in which he frankly stated he thought the treatment a waste of effort, unless I could assure him, which no one ever had, that in the future he would have the 'will power' to resist the impulse to drink."

c.1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, p. xxix.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may subordinate my will to the will of God.  I pray that I may be guided today to find His will for me."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 27.

Quote for the day:

"Restraint never ruins one's health.  What ruins it, is not restraint but outward suppression.  A really self-restrained person grows every day from strength to strength and from peace to more peace.  The very first step in self-restraint is the restraint of thoughts." __Monhandas Gandhi

My share:

After 46 years of living unbridled,with a devil-may-care attitude, I was brought to my knees by a moment of clarity that helped me realize the importance of caring for my fellows.  Much has changed within me since then.  Most especially has my self-restraint grown.  Be Good To You, Dave.

Thoughtfood for Saturday, November 28, 2009 

Surrender

When I came to realize that, by myself,

I could do nothing to overcome the power of alcohol,

I realized I had no recourse except surrender.

In surrender, I found victory.
- Daily Reflections,  p. 14

From the Big Book:

"His alcoholic problem was so complex, and his depression so great, that we felt his only hope would be through what we then called "moral psychology," and we doubted if even that would have any effect.

However, he did become 'sold' on the ideas contained in this book.  He has not had a drink for a great many years.  I see him now and then and he is as fine a specimen of manhood as one could wish to meet.

I earnestly advise every alcoholic to read this book through, and through perhaps he came to scoff, he may remain to pray."

__William D. Silkworth, M. D.

c. 1939, Alcoholics Anonymous, The Doctor's Opinion, pp. xxix-xxx.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may be very grateful today.  I pray that I may not forget where I might be but for the grace of God."

c. 1975, Hazleden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 28.

Quote for the day:

"Once we surrender our mind to God completely, He will take care of us i every way." __Sri Sathya Sai Baba (Indian Spiritual leader, b. 1926.) 

My share:   I will pass my share today to Anne.  Be Good To You, Dave

A MEMBER SHARES:
Hi!  Anne, recovering alcoholic here.  "Surrender" is a brilliant topic.  I felt I'd been shoved into outer space when I came to in a non-medicated detox 18 years ago.  It was the first time in 28 years I had been non-medicated in one form or another.  As a result, I attended my first AA meeting with nothing but blood in my veins after 11 days there.  During the course of that meeting, I identified what blackouts were, and the blanks to my lifelong problems were discussed.  I was an alcoholic!  Being able to discern this and finding out there was a solution to what passed for a life of mine, I surrendered to AA.  To this day, I have never regretted nor wished to change back to what I was, how I existed, nor how I longed to die.  From there, there have been many other 'surrenderings' and I am always grateful after the event.  Hindsight is grouse, hey!  Anyway, I will leave it there for another share, hopefully.  Thanks for being here.  I am grateful. 

Thoughtfood for Sunday, November 29, 2009

Power

Here was -- power!

Here was power to live to the end of any given day,

power to have the courage to face the next day,

power to have friends, power to help people,

power to be sane, power to stay sober. . .

I am deeply convinced that so long as

I continue to strive, in my bumbling way,

toward the principles I first encountered

 in the earlier chapters of this book,

this remarkable power will continue to flow through me.
- Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 386

From the Big Book:

"Chapter 1  Bill's Story

War fever ran high in the New England town to which we new, young officers from Plattsburg were assigned, and we were flattered when the first citizens took us to their homes, making us feel heroic.  Here was love, applause, war; moments sublime with intervals hilarious.  I was part of life at last, and in the midst of the excitement I discovered liquor.  I forgot the strong warnings and the prejudices of my people concerning drink,   In time we sailed for 'Over There'. I was very lonely and again turned to alcohol."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, Bill's Story, p 1.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may be loyal to God and to others.  I pray that my life today may be lived close to His and to others."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 29.

Quote for the day:

"Life is thickly sown with thorns, and I know no other remedy than to pass quickly through them.  The longer we dwell on our misfortunes, the greater is their power to harm us."  __Voltaire (French Philosopher and Writer, 1694-1778.)

My share:

In admitting powerlessness over alcohol is empowerment.

Once I surrendered, my life began to be manageable, and stays so as long as I choose to let my Higher Power be in charge.
Be Good To You, Dave

Thoughtfood for Monday, November 30, 2009

An Unshakable Foundation

There is a direct linkage among self-examination,

meditation, and prayer.

Taken separately, these practices can bring

much relief and benefit.

But when they are interwoven,

the result is an unshakable foundation for life.
- As Bill Sees It, p 33

From the Big Book:

"We landed in England.  I visited Westminster Cathedral.  Much moved, I wandered outside.  My attention was caught by a doggerel on an old tombstone:

     'Here lies a Hampshire Grenadier

     Who caught his death

     Drinking cold small beer:

     A good soldier is ne'er forgot

     Whether he dieth by musket

           Or by pot.'"

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, Bill's Story, p.1.

Prayer for the day:

"I pray that I may lose my limitations in the immensity of God's love.  I pray that my spirit may be in harmony with His spirit."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, Nov. 30.

Quote for the day:

"A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him."   __David Brinkley (American Journalist, 1920-2003)

My share:

I doubt not that I have laid a firm foundation for my sobriety.  I sometimes wonder how stable are the walls that hold the roof to shelter me. Be Good To You, Dave.