June 9

”Every day is a new beginning. Treat it that way. Stay away from what might have been, and look at what can be.” Marsha Petrie Sue

I do believe that each day is a fresh start, a blank page waiting for my story to be written upon it. When I make a point of remembering this it makes each day a part of a ritual of renewal and rebirth, a chance to start anew and to see the limitless possibilities which lay before me. There’s the important part, when I remember. My downfall in this regard is simply routine. I am a creature of habit. I like to do the same things day in and day out. Trying to treat each morning like it’s the first day of the rest of my life is an attempt to break out of my mold, and to make every day a unique experience on purpose. This is not something that can be routine. It needs fresh, invigorating ideas and energy, a dash of naivety, and a bit of blind luck. As I heard someone say, it is my attitude, not my aptitude, which will help me achieve my altitude. My perception, where I put my focus for the day and how I lay the foundation in those first minutes after I awake, goes a long way in setting the stage for what will follow. I need to make a concentrated effort to be in the moment throughout the day, and not just caught up in the flow of what is happening around me. Taking the time to fully experience moments during the day keeps me grounded and connected to my Higher Power, and strengthens my reserve of serenity and clarity.

Affirmation

There are things I can to in starting my day which will make it easier to have a good one. I will take the time to pray, meditate, and find the energy to see all the wonderful potential that awaits.

May 1

”The sun does not shine for a few trees and flowers, but for the wide world's joy.” William Ward Beecher

Ah, once again spring is in the air. I never get tired of living in a country where nature comes back to life after a long, cold winter. The rejuvenation that takes place all around is refreshing to the soul. It is a chance for a yearly rebirth and boost of renewed energy. Yet spring also holds dangers. As the weather warms up, the layers of clothes tend to get fewer and thinner. It is certainly a more challenging time for wandering eyes. I have learned a few could tricks to help out, like having to find someone as the same sex to look at if I find myself looking to long at someone of the opposite sex. To ensure that I look at the whole person, especially their face and eyes, rather than obsessing about a certain aspect. I need to recall that these are real people, not objects of my fantasy. The return of the warmth of the sun brings joy to my heart. Basking in the day’s glow reminds be to be happy and grateful to enjoy the world around me. It gives me more reason to get out of the house and walk, cycle or whatever to spend time in the great outdoors. I also feel more connected to my Higher Power when I can see, touch, taste and smell the wonders He’s put here for us to enjoy.

Affirmation I come alive like the tulip rising in the spring. Rebirth is a part of the cycle of life and I am glad for the renewal.

November 12 (82)

” Find a place or an activity that gives your senses a chance to unwind and lets you catch a fresh vision of peacetime possibilities. Furnish it comfortably. Make it beautiful. Use it often.” Thomas Kinkade

I am thankful that restoring my connection to natures has been one of the benefits of recovery. In my isolation I not only lost touch with the people in my life, but also the simple joys and wonders of nature. Being able to once again bask in the warm glow of the sun, to rejoice in the delights of the song birds and bathe in the light of the moon on a starry night – all these and more are pleasures that once again enhance and enrich my daily life. It is important for me to find those places and activities that refuel my soul. A special corner of the park where I ground myself, a specific passage from a book or piece of music that sets my heart at ease – these are tools to help renew my serenity and sanity. Sometimes I need to force myself to go there and unwind to get away from it all for a while. Being able to find ways to recharge my batteries on my own is important. It is equally important for me to continue to reach out and connect with other members at meetings, over coffee or even over the phone. The greater my peace within, the closer my connection to my Higher Power.

Affirmation Finding my ways to relax, reset, and refresh my energy are important in maintaining my sanity and serenity.