April 29

"What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.” Zig Ziglar

It has been pretty clear to me in light of the current situation that my goals have shifted, rather drastically in fact. I am certain that I am not the only one going through a bit of an identity crisis as the places that I am needed and allowed to "work" has been greatly influenced. It has made me pause to reflect on what I really want to achieve in life. I still have a good solid job, waiting for me once restrictions lift and we go back to the new normal. In the meantime, however, how do I occupy my time. What "hobbies" do I focus on, are there other ways to use my skills and abilities? Is it a chance to safely explore other potential career paths? These are things that have been running through my mind. In all honesty, the jury is still out. I am weighing my options, while at the same time putting a more concerted effort into reaching out to solidify some aspects like my writing which could become something more than an occasional habit. The more important aspect for me is in realizing that this detour is still a part of the path forward to reaching the goals I want in life. Much of what is happening is beyond my control, yet that doesn't mean I do not have any control - I am still able to pick a direction and go that way. I can still choose the person I am aspiring to become.

Affirmation

Reflecting on who I am and who I wish to be can help me make the right choices today.

April 27

” A promise is a cloud; fulfillment is rain.” Arabian Proverb

Days like today my life seems to be filled with nothing but clouds, all these hopes and dreams to be realized that are just out of reach, taunting and teasing me when all I want is just a few of them to come true, for it to rain. A cloud is a difficult thing to capture, to ensnare, or to tame. It has a form yet is somewhat intangible at the same time. Rain I can feel, taste, measure, experience and even save. A cloud is fleeting, only there for a short while. My life needs fulfillment. Part of what I still struggle with is chasing the clouds that are part of the life my Higher Power wants me to follow. I don’t always do so well in distinguishing the His clouds from the ones that contain my more selfish desires and wants. This is when I need to slow down and seek guidance through prayer and meditation, talking with those like my sponsor who know me well and have been there before, to find the direction so I spend my energy on the right promises. At the least, I need to remember to be thankful that there are a multitude of clouds in my sky today. It is much more pleasant than the raging storm that dominated for too many of my years as I lived under the reign of my addiction. I know there is a good life waiting for me, good things that will come, and that my patience and perseverance in doing the right things will bear fruit in time.

Affirmation When all seems to be passing me by I need to quiet my soul and open my thoughts to hearing the guidance of my Higher Power.