The question drives me nuts when I hear it. Especially if, I am already in an angry tailspin when I hear it.
What Step are you working?
Will Rogers said people who fly off the handle rarely make a good landing: a wry reminder losing my temper is a dodgy and dangerous.
When I rev up for such a take-off, and a sponsor or program friend asks me that question, it’s like that slap in the Skin Bracer ad from the early 1970’s.“Thanks I needed that.”
I didn’t want it, but I am so busted. Strong emotions often mean I’ve stopped working my steps – or I’ve skipped over some; almost certainly the one which suggests I turn my will and my life over to the care of God, as I understand Him.
I may not be fixing to drink, but I just may be fretting over people, places or things that are not as I wish them to be. Emotions bubble up – How am I handling them, is a good question. If I am working my steps, I can answer that question!
Anger is one letter short of danger. ~Author Unknown
It’s no coincidence then that an AlAnon friend sent me this acrostic:
Try
Really
Using
Step
Three
Dear reader,
Whether it’s to stop the drinking we can’t control, or the raging because we can’t control another person’s choices, trusting God with our will and life is simple and hard. I haven’t mastered the Third Step – this side of heaven I wind up in really dumb wrestling matches to have my own way. The mercy is God allows U-turns, and rock bottom is solid ground.
Here’s a link to how others in recovery suggest how to start ~Recovery Prayers
Praying that just for today we both avoid rough landings, just for today.
Love in Christ,
Sober and Grateful

