January 22

“Don’t waste yourself in rejection, nor bark against the bad, but chant the beauty of good.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Even in my recovery I can spend too much time in my negativity. Not only for what I have done or what I am not doing, but also just for always seeing the bad side of life’s events. I am coming to realize that focusing on the negative aspects and brooding over the problem does little to make me feel better or move me towards a solution. It is some mental reprogramming that I need to put in place to erase all the pessimism that ruled my former thinking. The tool of affirmations is helping me to move in a better direction and to see things in a more positive light. It is a learning process that does not come naturally for me. It takes a conscious effort to build this into my program of recovery, including reciting them in front of the mirror. It is a recurring theme in my step work as well. The flip side of all that negativity is gratitude. This is another place I need to work at and find and count my blessings. In my daily prayer I make an effort to list 3-5 things that I am thankful for, no matter how big or small. It is all part of improving my attitude and outlook on life.

Affirmation I can learn to look on the bright side of life and let go of darkness that used to predominate. There is a gift to be found in every situation.