Changing as A Way of Life
Learning I can change; changing what I can, that is me, and being grateful for the wisdom and opportunity are rewards in sober living. Before I came to believe a power greater than myself could restore me to a healthy life, I felt hopeless. I was cursed to keep going on some dark spiral known well on both sides of my family that nobody liked to talk about, but we all knew about if we’d survived a few Christmas dinners or wakes.
A.A’s laughed empathically when I confessed my gene pool excuse and urged me to keep coming back, and maybe just try not to pick up the next drink.
That still works for me – that, and practicing the Serenity Prayer – the whole one. I forget the words sometimes – but not the principle: Ask God for wisdom, courage and the will to do HIS will.
Life is 10% how you make it, 90% how you take it. Irving Berlin
Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference – Winston Churchill
The best attitude I can have is
I can’t take it; God can; so, I will let Him.
This presupposes I do in fact know, believe, and trust I am not He. Most days I really, really do accept, I am the co-pilot; other days I try switching seats.
Two antidotes that work have been been
- What the program suggests – Belief means reliance – not defiance.(The 12& 12, page 31)
2. The memory of what happened when I tried my way.
Turning to God, believing I am entrusting my tears, trials and triumphs to Someone who has strength, wisdom, compassion and courage to sort through all the knots in my life’s yarn has made more sense than my Lilliputian machinations. (Proverbs 14:12)
Changing what I can has meant giving over the burdens; this has been wise when I do – and oh so stupid when I think I can handle it. Living inside my own head is a drafty place; living in the real world, with its problems and pleasures, just for today, is a better choice for me.
The program reminds me changing means we can share our experiences, our strengths, and even our hopes. But only God can bear our burdens. (Matthew 11:28-29)
“You who spun the galaxies into space, now hold my worrywart heart.” (Living with a Purpose in a Worn-Out Body, page 15)
Hope this Scott Wesley Brown song lifts your hope, and helps you as God is changing you. He Will Carry You.
Love in Christ,
Sober and Grateful
Always uplifting.