“But the sooner I let go, the better.”

Three readings. A song that says the rest. And inspiration for whatever this day is here to teach.

A lone surfer riding inside a great curling wave

Read — the readings that opened the day

Touchstones Daily Meditations

Hazelden Betty Ford

Recovery without joy and song and playfulness is incomplete. The beauty of music uplifts our spirits and shows us the face of our Creator. Some people say, "How can you celebrate when there is so much suffering, so much to grieve about?" We have grieved; we continue to grieve alongside our joy. But we need not pour all our energies into the painful and sad. Life is also wonderful. Music, dance and the joy of good fellowship enrich our lives and strengthen us to go on. Praise the spirit of our Creator for all that is given to us!

Meditation for the Day

Twenty-Four Hours a Day

Your life has been given to you mainly for the purpose of training your soul. This life we live is not so much for the body as for the soul. We often choose the way of life that best suits the body, not the way that best suits the soul. God wants you to choose what suits the soul as well as the body. Accept this belief and a wonderful molding of character is the result. Reject it and God's purpose for your life is frustrated, and your spiritual progress is delayed. Your soul is being trained by the good you choose. Thus the purpose of your life is being accomplished. Prayer for the Day I pray that I may choose what is good for my soul. I pray that I may realize God's purpose for my life.

Reflect — Steve L.'s own words

Yesterday, we stood outside under umbrellas for a hour in the wind & rain waiting for our walking tour guide. He did not show. Looking at each other, angry, cold and wet, we started blaming each other. Then something weird happened. Almost at the same time, Gail and I looked at each other and said “F – it! Let’s move on inside and get a coffee. Walking across the square, the Majestic Café looked very cool, and we walked in.

Wow, what a place!

Greeted by smiling staff, they seated us inside looking out, and we ordered hot chocolates. Mine with whipped cream. And wow, did they deliver!

As I took a sip, I got whipped cream on my nose! We both laughed and went on to have a great day.

Thank you. You taught me the tools to freedom of letting go, that it was an inside job, that my problem centered in my mind. I thought it was everyone & everything else, and trust me, I still can play the blame game. But the sooner I let go, the better. It’s a soul sacrifice for ease & comfort, but there’s a much deeper spirit in the soul than my demands!