Topics

Topics 6/5/25 💌

1) DAILY REFLECTION -ENTIRELY READY

“This is the Step that separates the men from the boys.” … the difference between “the boys and the men” is the difference between striving for a self determined objective and for the perfect objective which is of God. It is suggested that we ought to become entirely willing to aim toward perfection. The moment we say, “No, never!” our minds close against the grace of God. This is the exact point at which we abandon limited objectives, and move toward God’s will for us.

-TWELVE STEPS AND TWELVE TRADITIONS, pp. 63, 68, 69

2) As Bill Sees It – Perception of Humility

An improved perception of humility starts a revolutionary change in our outlook. Our eyes begin to open to the immense values which have come straight out of painful ego-puncturing. Until now, our lives have been largely devoted to running from pain and problems. Escape via the bottle was always our solution.

Then, in A.A., we looked and listened. Everywhere we saw failure and misery transformed by humility into priceless assets.

3) WALK IN DRY PLACES 

Though we’re encouraged to live one day at a time, we must also be aware of the future. For example, we should not put off things that will get worse with time. We should not avoid unpleasant decisions that will have to be made sooner or later. Living one day at a time really means planning to do our best each day. While we cannot predict or control the future, we do have a responsibility to act so that our tomorrows will also be good days for living.

4) The Language Of Letting Go

Shame can hold us back, hold us down, and keep us staring at our feet.

—Beyond Codependency

Compulsive behaviors, sexually addictive behaviors, overeating, chemical abuse, and addictive gambling are shame-based behaviors. If we participate in them, we will feel ashamed. It’s inevitable. We need to watch out for addictive and other compulsive behaviors because those will immerse us in shame. 

Be done with shame. Attack shame. Go to war with it. Learn to recognize it and avoid it like the plague.

Today, I will deliberately refuse to get caught up in the shame floating around in the world. If I cannot resist it, I will feel it, accept it, and then be done with it as quickly as possible. God, help me know that it’s okay to love myself and help me to refuse to submit to shame. If I get off course, help me learn to change shame into guilt, correct the behavior, and move forward with my life in immediate self-love.