“recovery is changing from focusing on the negative and embracing the positive.”

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

A Deep Breath Of Life

Alan Cohen

“Anxiety springs from regret or resentment over past events, or fear of anticipated pain. When we relax into the NOW moment, we are not burdened by the past or future; we discover hope; an infinite number of present moments ahead. Just for today, help me to relax into the goodness of my breath; to open my eyes and heart to the miracle of the NOW, and leave everything else behind.”

Adapted from A Deep Breath Of Life

Recovery Every Day Meditations

“There are many forms of self-abandonment. Ignoring your wants & needs. Judging & criticizing yourself. Staying in bad relationships with family or people who don't have your back. Looking to others for validation. Using substances. There is an alternative to abandoning yourself. It’s called letting go, trusting the unknown Spirit that religions talk about, but without religious dogma! We all are given life and a Spirit that is deep down inside each of us. Just think of all of the people who have bounced back from the depths of darkness & despair. You can too! Remember the joys, the love, the goodness. Know that you’re loved beyond measure. There’s a new path waiting with your unique name & personality on it!”

Twenty-Four Hours a Day

Meditation for the Day When your life is built upon obedience to God and upon doing His will, as you understand it, you will grow steadfast and unmovable even in the midst of storms. The serene, steadfast, unmovable life - the rock home - is laid stone by stone - foundation, walls, and roof - by acts of obedience to the heavenly vision. The daily following of God's guidance and the daily doing of His will build your house upon a rock. Prayer for the Day I pray that my life may be founded upon the rock of faith. I pray that I may be obedient to the heavenly vision.

Reflect — Steve L.'s own words

Yesterday, I had the privilege of going to my friend Scott’s 71st birthday party. I first met Scott at his first meeting back in 1987. So many memories came back; Scott helped me more than I helped him.

I was going through one of my darkest times; at 3 ½ years sober, divorce was unfolding after 15 years of marriage;

We had 2 sons, ages 6 & 8; I was just starting a new job, and living in an extra bedroom at my brother’s house.

Filled with remorse, terror, fear and shame, I couldn’t imagine how everything was gonna work out.

The noise in my brain was devastating. Why is this happening to me? I’m such a failure, a loser. I see no way out.

I called my sponsor.

He answered & said, “Steve, there’s lots of things we can’t control. Take a moment and write down the good stuff; recovery is changing from focusing on the negative and embracing the positive.” With tears in my eyes, and anger I yelled into the phone,

“FU, I can’t see anything good. It’s all bad.” After a few more choice words, I stopped long enough to hear him say,

“Then just write down all of the bad, and meet me in an hour.”

I did, and guess what? My despair passed. I got through it, one moment at a time.

I was able to focus on my job, Scott's recovery, and be a Dad to my sons.

Today, help me remember that the end of the road is only a sharp turn; to be grateful for friends and the help to show how to unload regrets & fears, to make room for all of the goodness!