“I've slowly learned that I can’t fix, manage or control much.”

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

“My friend was late to her therapy session and got stuck behind a slowpoke on the highway. After honking & cursing at the driver in front of her, she finally had a clearing to pass. When she did, she discovered that the driver was her therapist. Trust that you have enough time to do everything that needs to be done. Love does not worry or force; it flows. Relax into what is happening, and the peace you enjoy will be accompanied by the clarity and efficiency you gain. Help me to know that all things are unfolding naturally; that God's timing is perfect.”

Adapted from A Deep Breath of Life

Psalm 46 v 10

"Be still and know that I Am God." Psalm 46 v 10

Touchstones Daily Meditations

“When we truly care about someone, we don't snatch him or her out of his or her learning experience. When we allow our loved ones and friends to confront the natural consequences of their own actions, they learn and grow just as we do. We can be with a friend, but we are no one's Higher Power. Today, I will be respectful of others by letting them walk their path while I walk mine.”

Twenty-Four Hours a Day

Meditation for the Day “Expect miracles of change in people's lives. Never believe that human nature cannot be changed. We see changed people every day. Modern miracles happen every day in the lives of people. Do you have the faith to make those changes possible? All miracles are in the realm of personalities. Human nature can be changed and is always being changed. But we must have enough faith so that we can be channels for God's strength into the lives of others. Prayer for the Day I pray that I may have the faith to expect miracles. I pray that I may be used by God to help change the lives of others.”

Reflect — Steve L.'s own words

Pause when agitated or action is the magic word? Hold on or let go? The messages were contradictory; early on this sober journey, I was confused. Early on, I remember calling my sponsor and asking, “So just who the hell do I ask?”

He laughed and simply said “It’s an inside job. Try the “On Awakening Prayer on pages 86-88.”

Today, I still rely on that to get quiet, centered. I wait for an intuitive thought from The Power inside. And I share my anxiety and discomfort with someone and do my best to move forward. It really is an inside job!

Yesterday, talking with many friends, all I can do is try to listen and share my experience. I've slowly learned that I can’t fix, manage or control much. The vision of the hula hoop around the circle & triangle at Lunch Bunch flashes in my mind. I still struggle with that; it’s just too small!

Working outside in the yard, with 114-degree heat under a hot sun, it was great. Yesterday I was in the sauna at the gym; this is far better! My buddy Charlie drove up, stopped and scratched his head. "I gotta give you credit," he said. I pulled up my pants because he also reminded me it’s a no crack neighborhood! We both laughed and as he left, I embraced the love and gratitude of the fellowship. The Keys of the Kingdom sometimes take me to a country club, yacht club or gym, but also just out in the yard! What a great deal a 24-hour chip offers!

Calling friends this morning to say congrats on 15 years brought in more love, gratitude and fellowship. Here Comes the Sun; put your sunscreen on! And thank you for a pathway to a great life.