“One thing was certain; fellowship in recovery is a big deal.”

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

Buddhism’s Foundational Guidelines to Better Train the Mind

Thanissaro Bhikkhu

“If our main problem centers in the mind, how can we change? As we continue to act on intentions that we know that are unskillful, we’re being controlled by false beliefs. Stuck in old ideas, acting on impulses, again, we ask, how can we change? Well, in Buddhism, the word citta translates to mind, heart, or state of consciousness. In addition, The Five Precepts allow growth in moral integrity, compassion and mindfulness. So, what exactly do we learn? One thing: we learn about being mindful; about being alert to our own sense of values. We can pause, take a breath and refocus on our inner core of security, filled with forgiveness and Love. We begin to break false beliefs. This journey of consciousness continues to grow and becomes a working part of the mind. Today, I give thanks for new Power bringing clarity to my intentions and actions.”

A Deep Breath of Life

Alan Cohen

“When undertaking any significant enterprise or relationship, or when facing any challenge, take a deep breath and make prayer your first line of support. It will help you far more than any action based on fear or worldly manipulation. Today, I place my trust in You; though unseen to the human eye, You are perfectly present. You are my strength and my fortress, and Your Spirit never fails.”

Adapted from A Deep Breath of Life

Twenty-Four Hours a Day

Meditation for the Day “Make it a daily practice to review your character. Take your character in relation to your daily life, to your dear ones, your friends, your acquaintances, and your work. Each day try to see where God wants you to change. Plan how best each fault can be eradicated or each mistake be corrected. Never be satisfied with a comparison with those around you. Strive toward a better life as your ultimate goal. God is your helper through weakness to power, through danger to security, through fear and worry to peace and serenity. Prayer for the Day I pray that I may make real progress toward a better life. I pray that I may never be satisfied with my present state.”

Reflect — Steve L.'s own words

Walking into Cyclelogical Coffee yesterday, I got to catch up with Dick B. One thing was certain; fellowship in recovery is a big deal. Free to discuss questions, concerns, and the ups and downs of the journey, we’re no longer alone. The laughter at some of our ideas and actions was a perfect reminder that there must be Something that’s inspired, driven and nurtured us along the path other than our own instincts and intelligence. It wasn't just us on our own managing better!

After he left, I was able to do some work continuing to wrap up my brother’s affairs. I started to fall into anger and blame, then switched to forgiveness & love. So many old, great memories, especially in the White Mountains. I love and miss you, Bob.

My friend Linda walked in, and we both laughed at always seeing each other around town. First meeting her and her husband Paul at Skiers Edge in 1986, we’ve been great friends ever since. As she left, I was reminded of the New Life the 12 Steps have given me; yet fears, doubts and thoughts of loss still come up.

I wanted to be better, do a better job with work and family. Then, I focused on all of the wonderful things that have happened. So many miracles, too many to list. Calling others, receiving FaceTime from my grandkids in London helped me snap out of self. The gratitude was overwhelming. Thank you.

At the Men’s mtg., the topic was making our list and becoming willing to make amends for the harms we’ve done. I’m so grateful for the help my sponsors gave me along the way. It’s a lifetime journey from acting out of pride, shame and being chief critic to acceptance, tolerance and love, but well worth the effort. Far better than walking on broken glass!