“Forgiveness, of them & of ourselves, is a wonderful freedom!”

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

How It Works

“Many of us had moral and philosophical convictions galore, but we could not live up to them even though we would have liked to. Neither could we reduce our self-centeredness much by wishing or trying on our own power. We had to have God’s help. This is the how and why of it. First of all, we had to quit playing God. It didn’t work. Next, we decided that hereafter in this drama of life, God was going to be our Director. He is the Principal; we are His agents. He is the Father, and we are His children. Most good ideas are simple, and this concept was the keystone of the new and triumphant arch through which we passed to freedom.”

Adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous

Twenty-Four Hours a Day

Meditation for the Day “There is beauty in a God-guided life. There is wonder in the feeling of being led by God. Try to realize God's bounty and goodness more and more. God is planning for you. Wonderful are His ways -- they are beyond your knowledge. But God's leading will enter your consciousness more and more and bring you ever more peace and joy. Your life is being planned and blessed by God. You may count all material things as losses if they prevent winning your way to the consciousness of God's guidance. Prayer for the Day I pray that I may earn the rewards of God's power and peace. I pray that I may develop the feeling of being led by God.”

Reflect — Steve L.'s own words

When I was new, Father’s Day weekend brought up all kinds of memories. The good, the bad, the ugly. I thought to myself, “Why, that’s crazy, selfish, judgmental. It’s supposed to be all good.” I called my sponsor. We talked at length; he shared stories about his childhood, his life, and his relationship with his Dad. I wasn’t alone; he had hurts, disappointments, and bad memories too.

I asked him, “How did you get rid of all of the negative, all of the expectations, all of the shame, guilt & pride?” He said, “It’s says in our book we were the chief critic; we could see the flaws in everyone & everything. Look at your Dad, your life; look at yourself; how much time is spent focused on the negative?”

Wow, I was the chief critic too; that thinking was painful, it wasn’t helping me, or putting me in a good spot. I wrote it all down, and unloaded it. Forgiveness, of them & of ourselves, is a wonderful freedom! My demands & expectations cannot be met! I let go to a new freedom!!

Thank you, God, for the ability to see the Good & God in everything, for the good vibrations!

And especially, thank you, Dad for all of your love, efforts & sacrifice; for everything you taught me. I love you, Dad!”