“Such a gift, being part of this New world in color.”

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

Moving Beyond Our Binary Minds

Richard Rohr

”Our recovery is a gift. Now, meditation and contemplation are the keys to unlock the next door. Compulsive, obsessive and negative thoughts come into our minds and grab our attention. We must find a way to let go of our fear, defensiveness, and expectations. Life keeps evolving into areas we have no control over or understanding of. We must learn to accept all parts of reality. In recovery, we discover the need to develop an “open, beginner’s mind” to find ways to practice thinking in a different way. The practice of meditation, to develop detachment through contemplation is a major exercise in the art of letting go. As we discover we can let go of our fear, defensiveness and expectations, we open to a New World every day!”

Meditation for the Day

Hazelden Foundation

“Prayer is of many kinds, but of whatever kind, prayer is the linking up of the soul and mind to God. So, if prayer is only a glance of faith, the result of that prayer is added strength to meet all temptations and to overcome them. Even if no supplication is expressed, all the supply of strength that is necessary is secured, because the soul, being linked and united to God, receives from Him all spiritual help needed. The soul, when in its human body, still needs the things belonging to its heavenly habitation. Prayer for the Day I pray that I may be taught how to pray. I pray that I may be linked through prayer to the mind and will of God.”

Reflect — Steve L.'s own words

What do you mean recovery is a gift? Sobriety is a death sentence; I used to feel so alive & creative, now I’m sitting in rooms with all the rest of the losers. I called my sponsor. “So what is this recovery really all about?” He listened and then calmly said, “Steve, you kept reloading your mind and body with self-will. Then, Something opened your heart to accept help. Is that a bad thing?”

Huh, I had to agree, I had lost my way. But was this the answer? I then asked, “so how do I accept this defeat, this weakness?” He answered, “Steve, the path to New Life is through surrender. Just look at the Japanese!” I had never thought of that. Out of defeat & surrender, Japan became a model of civilization. Maybe there was hope for me.

Step 2 told me that if I wanted, I would come to believe in a Power that could restore me to sanity. Being critical, judgmental, arrogant & self-righteous left me in a black & white world. I needed color; drinking and using once gave me that; now I need a replacement. Step 3 opens me to a New world, or Realm of the Spirit, with color! It opens a door that was closed.

Now, I’m about to embark on a great adventure, if I care to continue in the steps.

Yesterday was filled with calls and meetings with people that brought color to my life. Cousins, friends, sponsees, and time walking around the lake with Gail was all lit with color. On the phone with my son Aaron numerous times during the NBA game last night, Gail and I discussed the game in colorful terms! My other son Josh & his family are travelling to Naples for the week; the airfare is $35 RT from Albania. The photo of them at the airport was proof that New life in color and adventure exists! Such a gift, being part of this New world in color.

Thanks for a daily reset; there are no endings, just new beginnings!!