November 1 (93)

”Opportunities multiply as they are seized.” Sun Tzu

Regaining my self-confidence and trust in my ability to make healthier decisions is enabling me to take better advantage of life events. Certainly just the simple fact of being sober and not consumed by the thoughts of my addiction allows me to recognize more opportunities in the first place. The new awareness of my surroundings has penetrated all aspects of my life. It is a bit like realizing I have been living in a fog for years, only being able to see a short distance ahead as my addiction controlled what was acceptable to recognize. Now that the haze is lifting, I am aware that there is so much more to life. Life is funny sometimes, and things happen that are more than coincidental. It has happened more than once when I have been at a low point in my recovery, where I should have been reaching out, that instead I have had others reach out to me. It is these blessings in disguise that remind me that my Higher Power is always watching and looking out for me. I am grateful that I recognize that in helping others I often get help that I may not even have been aware I needed.

Affirmation Opportunities come in many forms. May I recognize them today, accept them, and see where they will lead me.

October 15

”Remember there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness.  Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.” Scott Adams

It’s been quite a long time that I have not believed in coincidence. Too many things have happened in my own life and those of the people around me to ignore the influence or something or someone else. I have always believed in God, in some way or another, and it was He who was readily available as my Higher Power when I found SAA. The fact that I think everything happens for a reason is also a founding argument for my belief in karma. That what we do, what we give of ourselves, how we treat others, all this eventually comes back to us. Acts of kindness clearly fit into this topic. Being kind means thinking of others, putting someone else’s needs before my own and giving service. The program talks at length about giving back, of being in service to others, and I think at the most basic level it starts with simple, kind acts. Being kind, compassionate and caring is all a part of living in harmony with others. Life is more pleasant and enjoyable when I am not in conflict. And I am truly beginning to see that it takes two people to create conflict, if I do not react then I can remain at peace no matter what others around me do.

Affirmation My smallest acts today may be my biggest reward. I will remember everyone around me has problems of their own and will treat them gently and kindly.