“How did I get so wrapped up in criticizing and being negative.”

“There is nothing negative in the First Step of the program, where we admit that we are powerless over our addiction and our lives. Powerlessness is not weakness; it simply recognizes that power is not a human attribute. We are powerless in and of ourselves. But when we look to our Higher Power, we can be set free - no longer bound by an addiction that does not love us. Have I tapped the source of all power? God, today, help me to joyfully accept my powerlessness over my addiction(s), knowing that this step will set me on the path to a new freedom.”

Adapted from Day by Day: Daily Meditations for Recovering Addicts©1974, 1998 by Hazelden Foundation

“When we feel distant and detached from everyone, angry at the world, an ongoing victim of life itself, then we can justify our compulsions & continue using. Once we reopen our minds to higher spiritual ideals though, everything changes. A positive relationship to each moment creates a sense of inner abundance and harmony. This is the spiritual transformation that empowers us to love greatly and enjoy living.”

Adapted from Hazelden Betty Ford

“Our mystical gifts are meant for our use in community. Our relationship with the Supreme encourages internal freedom from brutal enslavement of addictions, thoughts and negative behaviors. The mystical calls us to Ubuntu (“I am because we are”). We receive the strength and power to walk across the bridge to freedom; to fully experience the beauty of love, peace, purpose and community along the way!”

Adapted from Richard Rohr Daily Meditations

“Life is always good; but it isn’t always comfortable, easy, or understandable. Sometimes the most difficult moments bring us together in ways that we would miss if we stayed isolated. Many families have told me that a financial or health crisis reunited them in a way that never would have happened otherwise. Life is life; even at its worst, Love is always present. Thank You for all of the blessings You shower on me, even when I’m not aware of them. Today, God, help me to continually celebrate the goodness of the life You give; to bless every experience, trusting that You are with me.

Adapted from A Deep Breath of Life