Daily Recovery Readings - February

[bluidkiti]

February 1

Daily Reflections

http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...14&rdm=2&rdd=1

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As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

If you have been successful in solving your own domestic problems, tell the newcomer’s family how that was accomplished. In this way you can set them on the right track without becoming critical of them. The story of how you and your wife settled your difficulties is worth any amount of criticism.

p. 100

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Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

http://www.aa.org/1212/

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"He who cannot rest, cannot work; He who cannot let go, cannot hold on; He who cannot find footing, cannot go forward." --Harry Emerson Fosdick

If you find you've reached a dead end, it might be because you're sitting on it.

"You will never find time for anything. If you want time you must make it." --Charles Buxton

I asked my sponsor, "What do you do when you finish working the Steps?" Without batting an eye, he replied, "You lie really still, because you're dead!" --unknown

"Maintaining sobriety is like feeding a parking meter. It's all about change." --unknown

"Adopting the right attitude can convert a negative stress into a positive one." --Hans Selye

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

RELIGION

"We have just enough religion
to make us hate, but not enough
to make us love one another."
-- Jonathan Swift

Religion is a powerful influence in the world, but so often the "power"
is negative. It has been used to judge, divide, separate and control
people; rob them of their freedom and creativity; chain them to creeds
and teachings that are not comprehensible. Unfortunately, religion has
become dull and lifeless for many people and God's love is missed.

But the power of creative spirituality is alive in God's world. It unites
and frees the people so that they can be discovered in their
individuality. Difference is accepted, choice is respected and healing is
perceived in our ability to love.

Let me ever bring the gift of God's spirituality to those who have
misplaced it.

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"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in the time of need." Hebrews 4:16

Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven. Luke 6:36-37

Prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. James 1:22

Cast all your anxieties on God because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

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Daily Inspiration

We have every reason to be at peace because God will either protect us from suffering or give us immense strength to see us through it. Lord, I set aside my anxieties because You care for me every day in every way.

If you exercise your mind, your spirit will never get old. Lord, give me the ability to rise above my worldly burdens and ability to always make things a little better.

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Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places
Start Your Day With God

[bluidkiti]

February 2

Daily Reflections

http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...14&rdm=2&rdd=2

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As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

Assuming we are spiritually fit, we can do all sorts of things alcoholics are not supposed to do. People have said we must not go where liquor is served; we must not have it in our homes; we must shun friends who drink; we must avoid moving pictures which show drinking scenes; we must not go into bars; our friends must hide their bottles if we go to their houses; we mustn’t think or be reminded about alcohol at all.

pp. 100-101

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Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

http://www.aa.org/1212/

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While it isn't always easy, if I keep it simple, it works.

I hold firm to faith, so that nothing will weaken my commitment to live in God's light. --Shelley

Regardless of what has happened or whether we understand, we can open ourselves to God's protection and grace. --John Morton

It is in the silence of the heart that God speaks. --Mother Teresa

He who knows the precepts by heart, but fails to practice them, Is like unto one who lights a lamp and then shuts his eyes. --Nagarjuna

Listen or thy tongue will keep thee deaf. --American Indian Proverb

Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.

The heart is wiser than the intellect. --Josiah Holland (1819-1881)

Most of us are just about as happy as we make up our minds to be. --Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865)

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

WORK

"We work to become, not to
acquire."
-- Elbert Hubbard

I believe it is easier to get well than it is to stay sick --- but we must
be prepared to work for our sobriety. We need to confront the
disease and discover the "person " that God created. The road to
recovery is rewarding because we cast aside those aspects of our
character that have been destroying us and discover our strengths,
virtues and God-given spirituality.

For years I worked for money or for security or for acclaim --- today
I am working on myself for myself. I work at discovering God in His
world, and I am also finding God in my life. I realize that my creative
work coincides with God's will for the world.

Thank You for the gift of work that enables me to discover more of me.

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"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up." James 4:10

My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense - Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands. The man who says, "I know him," but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But if anyone obeys his word, God's love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did. 1 John 2:1-6

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Daily Inspiration

Enjoy God. Lord, I hand over all of my cares to You so that for this moment I am peacefully free.

God sends us His message, but we must be willing to receive it and then live it. Lord, when I yield to You, I become free and full of the richness of life.

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Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places
Start Your Day With God

[bluidkiti]

February 3

Daily Reflections

http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...14&rdm=2&rdd=3

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As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

We meet these conditions every day. An alcoholic who cannot meet them, still has an alcoholic mind; there is something the matter with his spiritual status. His only chance for sobriety would be some place like the Greenland Ice Cap, and even there an Eskimo might turn up with a bottle of scotch and ruin everything! Ask any woman who has sent her husband to distant places on the theory he would escape the alcohol problem.

p. 101

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Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

http://www.aa.org/1212/

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Decide to be happy, knowing it's an attitude, a habit gained from daily practice, and not a result or payoff. --Denis Waitley

I depend on God, as God has a plan for my life. --Shelley

If you look to others for fulfillment, you will never be fulfilled. If your happiness depends on money, you will never be happy with yourself. Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you. --Lao Tzu

Only if we follow can God lead the way. --Sandra Roberts Still

To live with the least amount of frustration, you must remind yourself that everything always works out for the best.

Make the most of every situation, especially those you dread.

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

STATISTICS

"There are three kinds of lies,
lies, damned lies and statistics."
-- Benjamin Disraeli

I used to be able to hide behind anything --- even statistics. Figures,
and the quoting of figures, can expand the ego and keep you sick.
They can confuse the issues by making everything complicated.

In the field of alcoholism statistics are important for comparison and
research but they can never be a substitute for a "rigorous honesty"
that is based upon personal experience. I do not think that statistics
alone stopped a person from drinking, but the sharing of a personal
suffering and victory can produce an identification that leads to
change.

As a recovering alcoholic I need to know the statistics concerning my
disease but I also need to know that today's recovery is based upon
yesterday's honest sharing.

Let me always see the faces behind the numbers.

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"He will cover you with his feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." Psalms 91:4

I sought the Lord and He answered me. Psalm 34:4

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you--you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?' or ‘What will we drink?' or ‘What will we wear?' For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. "So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today's trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:25-34

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Daily Inspiration

As God's children we have inherited all of His promises. Faith in You, Lord, refreshes my soul as nothing else can.

To have courage, think courageous, act courageous, and pray to God for courage. Lord, You are full of love for all who come to You.

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Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places
Start Your Day With God

[bluidkiti]

February 4

Daily Reflections

http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...14&rdm=2&rdd=4

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As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

In our belief any scheme of combating alcoholism which proposes to shield the sick man from temptation is doomed to failure. If the alcoholic tries to shield himself he may succeed for a time, but usually winds up with a bigger explosion than ever. We have tried these methods. These attempts to do the impossible have always failed.

p. 101

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Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

http://www.aa.org/1212/

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If we had no Winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; If we did not sometimes taste the adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.
--Anne Bradstreet

"Change is what happens when the pain of holding on becomes greater than the fear of letting go!" --Anonymous

Some flowers grow best in the sun; others do well in the shade. God plants us where we grow best. --Unknown

To go fast, row slowly. --Norman Vincent Peale

"Storms make trees take deeper roots." --Claude McDonald

God's love and grace are bigger than all our worries. --Denise DeKemper

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

INTELLIGENCE

"The brighter you are, the more
you have to learn."
-- Don Herold

The one thing I know in sobriety is how much I do not know! I thought
I knew every thing about God because I was a priest, only to discover
that I had made Him a prisoner of the Church. Once I was willing to
free Him from my prison, I discovered a freedom and awareness that
daily fascinates and astounds me.

Today I see that the glory of God shines within my pain, within my
loneliness, within my confusion, and the acceptance of my disease is the
key to recovery. Today the suffering enables me to discover a realistic
spirituality --- and it is okay to be confused!

With each new day, Lord, let me learn something --- even if it is that I
have not learned anything that day!

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"Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells." 2 Peter 3:13

You were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light. Ephesians 5:8

"I will instruct you and teach you." Psalm 32:8

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Daily Inspiration

One of life's greatest rewards is not what we get, but what we become. Lord, teach me as I am able to learn and give me the courage to be all that I can.

When we have to justify our actions, it may be that our actions are not just. Lord, Your will is goodness. May I always have the strength and courage to choose Your way so that I can simplify my life and enjoy the peace of Your presence.

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Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places
Start Your Day With God

[bluidkiti]

February 5

Daily Reflections
http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...14&rdm=2&rdd=5

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As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

So our rule is not to avoid a place where there is drinking, if we have a legitimate reason for being there. That includes bars, nightclubs, dances, receptions, weddings, even plain ordinary whoopee parties. To a person who has had experience with an alcoholic, this may seem like tempting Providence, but it isn’t.

p. 101

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Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

http://www.aa.org/1212/

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I just sit down for a few minutes, do a little thinking, and God writes the songs for me. --Hank Williams (1923 - 1953)

Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. --Confucius

The task ahead of us is never as great as the Power behind us.

"You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should." --Max Ehrmann

"Settle for nothing less than what you truly desire, and do not be afraid to ask for what you feel will bring you joy and fulfillment." --Emmanuel

"Experience is not what happens to a man. It is what a man does with what happens to him." --Aldous Huxley

"Our own rough edges become smooth as we help a friend smooth her edges." --Sue Atchley Ebaugh

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

MONEY

"Capital, as such, is not evil; it
is its wrong use that is evil."
-- Mohandas K. Gandhi

Today I am not afraid to say that I am concerned for my prosperity
--- not just in terms of health, friendship and employment but also
concerning money. For years I was concerned to have the best, buy
the best, own the best and not "shortchange" myself --- yet I felt
guilty in having such feelings. Today in my sobriety I truly believe
that I deserve the best. In this way I am loving myself. Money, prosperity
and capital are not "bad" in themselves; it is how we use them.

Today, as promised in my recovery, things are certainly getting
better and I am able to invest and buy wisely. Some years ago I would
squander money on my addiction. Today I am able to appreciate and
share my monetary benefits. Family, friends and the "needy" can
genuinely share my prosperity: the more I give away today, the more
I get.

Thank You for all the many benefits You have showered upon me in
my recovery, not least capital. May I always use it responsibly.

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"I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh." Galatians 5:16

"Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?" 1 Corinthians 3:16

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" Philippians 4:4

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord. 'Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a good hope and a good future.'"
Jeremiah 29:11

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Daily Inspiration

Today do what you can and expect no more of yourself. Lord, I will feel joy in my accomplishments today and gratitude for the things I have to do tomorrow.

Do not act as though you are watching a parade because we are each one of the marchers. Lord, things change so quickly. Help me to celebrate the constant newness of my life.

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Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places
Start Your Day With God

[bluidkiti]

I have been contacted by Steve Helland, an attorney at Fredrikson & Byron law firm and representative of Hazelden Foundation, including Hazelden Publishing. I have been asked to remove the following from the Daily Recovery Readings:
● Walk in Dry Places
● Keep It Simple
● Twenty-Four Hours A Day
● Each Day a New Beginning
I am working on complying with their request.

I have added links for those readings and more at the bottom of each post.

[bluidkiti]

February 6

Daily Reflections

http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...14&rdm=2&rdd=6

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As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

You will note that we made and important qualification. Therefore, ask yourself on each occasion, “Have I any good social, business, or personal reason for going to this place? Or am I expecting to steal a little vicarious pleasure from the atmosphere of such places?” If you answer these questions satisfactorily, you need have no apprehension. Go or stay away, whichever seems best. But be sure you are on solid spiritual ground before you start and that your motive in going is thoroughly good. Do not think of what you will get out of the occasion. Think of what you can bring to it. But if you are shaky, you had better work with another alcoholic instead!

pp. 101- 102

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Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

http://www.aa.org/1212/

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We can teach the faith by the way we face what each day brings. --Damaris Hernandez

"Courage is fear that has said its prayers." --One Day at a Time in Al-Anon

"I said to a man who stood at the gate of the year: Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown." And he replied, "Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than a light and safer than a known way." --Minnie L. Haskins

The greatest gift you receive from loving someone is Loving Someone.

If you judge people, you have no time to love them. --Mother Teresa

The solution is simple. The solution is spiritual.

S T E P S = Solutions To Every Problem in Sobriety.

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

LIES

"Christ cannot possibly have been
a Jew. I don't have to prove that
scientifically. It is a fact!"
-- Joseph Goebbels

Today I know that if a lie is said loudly enough, often enough, with ceremony and ritual,
people will believe it. I can identify with the above statement: I said I was not alcoholic
because I did not drink every day, in the mornings, all day and I was too young! People
believed me. Some people still choose to believe this lie.

Spirituality requires that I not only confront the lies in other people but also in myself.
Usually if I am angry at the remarks of others, it is because they remind me of myself.
Today I seek not simply to condemn but to understand.

May I continue to learn from the criticism I make of others.

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One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. Psalm 27:4-5

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples." John 15:5-8

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Daily Inspiration

It is better to try and fail than to fail because you are afraid to try. Lord, grant me the courage to live my life to the fullest.

Learn to be peaceful in all situations and trust that through all stages of our lives, God has a plan. Lord, may I have the wisdom to be able to turn my stumbling blocks into building blocks.

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Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places
Start Your Day With God

[bluidkiti]

February 7

Daily Reflections

http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...14&rdm=2&rdd=7

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As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

Why sit with a long face in places where there is drinking, sighing about the good old days. If it is a happy occasion, try to increase the pleasure of those there; if a business occasion, go and attend to your business enthusiastically. If you are with a person who wants to eat in a bar, by all means go along. Let your friends know they are not to change their habits on your account. At a proper time and place explain to all your friends why alcohol disagrees with you. If you do this thoroughly, few people will ask you to drink. While you were drinking, you were withdrawing from life little by little. Now you are getting back into the social life of this world. Don’t start to withdraw again just because your friends drink liquor.

p. 102

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Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

http://www.aa.org/1212/

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God, the Master Artist, sees the whole picture and desires to make something delightful of us. --Gene L. Lankford

The joy is in the journey.

Life didn't end when I got sober -- it started.

Situations I fear are rarely as bad as the fear itself.

If faith without works is dead, then willingness without action is fantasy.

Resentment is like acid, eating away at the vessel it is stored in.

Walk softly and carry a Big Book.

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

CHILDLIKE

"In every child who is born, under
no matter what circumstances,
and of no matter what parents, the
potentiality of the human race is
born again."
-- James Agee

Today I am able to believe and see the God-given dignity of the human race in
the faces and lifestyles of others. In the challenge and rebelliousness of youth is
the hope for tomorrow.

Today I can associate myself with the need to question, risk and "be
outrageous". Today I can play, laugh at myself and own my craziness. Today I do
not need to be perfect.

When I used drugs, I was so judgmental, serious and controlling. Everything had
to have a place, or an answer, or be acceptable to others. My moments of guilt
were caused by my inability to please others.

Today I can be childlike and identify with the radical message for tomorrow: "to
thine own self be true!"

I see a child looking at the stars and I smile; I am that child.

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O sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples. For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; he is to be revered above all gods.
Psalm 96:1-4

I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned for me, but had no opportunity to show it. Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Phillipians 4:10-13

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Matthew 5:6

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Daily Inspiration

There is no moment like right now. Lord, help me start one thing today that I have been putting off.

Spend less time trying to change and more time making the best of who you are. Lord, help me daily to put Your words into action.

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Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places

[bluidkiti]

I have removed AA Daily Meditations at the request of aa.org.

[bluidkiti]

February 8

Daily Reflections

http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...14&rdm=2&rdd=8

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As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

Your job now is to be at the place where you may be of maximum helpfulness to others, so never hesitate to go anywhere if you can be helpful. You should not hesitate to visit the most sordid spot on earth on such an errand. Keep on the firing line of life with these motives and God will keep you unharmed.

p. 102

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Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

http://www.aa.org/1212/

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The past remembered is a good guide for the future. --Chinese Proverb

"One that would have the fruit must climb the tree." --Thomas Fuller

Inspire someone to happiness today by sharing your own blessings and good fortune with them.

Blues Ain't Nothing But A Good Soul Feeling Bad.

When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us. --Helen Keller

Even when we make a mess of our lives, God loves us and helps us. --Joanne Hillman

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

HOPE

"The hopeful man sees success
where others see failure,
sunshine where others see
shadows and storm."
-- O. S. Marden

Spirituality involves our attitudes and perceptions as well as our
prayers. Spirituality requires a realistic awareness of what we need
and what we have been given. Spirituality sees beyond the problems
into the solution.

Hope is a feeling that is based on a spiritual perception of life that
shuns apathy and negativity. Everything can be used for good if it is
perceived realistically; destructive experiences, painful moments and
failed relationships can all be used to create a new tomorrow.

The hope that stems from our ability to change requires a realistic
understanding of what has happened. No aspect of life should be
wasted because it can point to a glorious tomorrow.

Teach me to discover the secret of success in the problems of life.

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Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16

The Lord says, "As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you." Isaiah 66:13

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Daily Inspiration

Through the power of God within me, I am stronger than any of my circumstances. Lord, I seek, I knock and I ask and You are always there and ready to give me the miracles that I need.

It is important to remember that different can be better. Lord, as I resist change and cling to the familiar, help me to remember that Your plan is perfect and will truly make me happy.

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Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places

[bluidkiti]

February 9

Daily Reflections

http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...14&rdm=2&rdd=9

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As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

Many of us keep liquor in our homes. We often need it to carry green recruits through a severe hangover. Some of us still serve it to our friends provided they are not alcoholic. But some of us think we should not serve liquor to anyone. We never argue this question. We feel that each family, in the light of their own circumstances, ought to decide for themselves.

pp. 102-103

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Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

http://www.aa.org/1212/

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Decision is the spark that ignites action. Until a decision is made, nothing happens. --Wilfred A. Peterson

"You've got to do your own growing, no matter how tall your grandfather was." --Irish Proverb

"Don't rent space to anyone in your head." --Anon.

I trust and believe God wants good things for me. --Shelley

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.
It turns what we have into enough, and more.
It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity.
It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.
Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.
--Melody Beattie

When we look around us with eyes of faith, we may see paradise. --Scott Sawyer

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

ENVIRONMENT

"Love your neighbor as thyself,
but choose your neighbor."
-- Louise Beal

Part of my recovery and sobriety involves change. It is not enough to
"put down the jug" to gain sobriety; I need to make substantial
changes in my life.

Where I live, with whom I live, the friends I keep and the relationships
I make are crucial to my sobriety. Human beings imitate. They imitate
clothes, hairstyles and mannerisms. Sobriety is also imitated.

As a recovering alcoholic, I can only be spiritually happy with those
who are joyous and free; I need to find them.

God, You are to be found in Your creation. Let me seek You in a noble
lifestyle.

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"For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down themiddle wall of separation." Ephesians 2:14

To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in His throne.
Revelation 3:21

"My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power." I Corinthians 2:4

"Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us." Psalm 62:8

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Daily Inspiration

When you feel down, look up. Lord, at all times and in the midst of all that is happening, You are there comforting, healing, and bringing peace to my life.

Know that you can do even if things are not always easy. Lord, in You I have the support of an unlimited power source and can accomplish great things because You strengthen me.

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Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places

[bluidkiti]

February 10

Daily Reflections

http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...4&rdm=2&rdd=10

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As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

************************************************** *********

Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions
Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places
Keep It Simple

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

We are careful never to show intolerance or hatred of drinking as an institution. Experience shows that such an attitude is not helpful to anyone. Every new alcoholic looks for this spirit among us and is immensely relieved when he finds we are not witchburners. A spirit of intolerance might repel alcoholics whose lives could have been saved, had it not been for such stupidity. We would not even do the cause of temperate drinking any good, for not one drinker in a thousand likes to be told anything about alcohol by one who hates it.

p. 103

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"Three things in human life are important. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind. And the third is to be kind." --Henry James

"You have it easily in your power to increase the sum total of this world's happiness now. How? By giving a few words of sincere appreciation to someone who is lonely or discouraged. Perhaps you will forget tomorrow the kind words you say today, but the recipient may cherish them over a lifetime." --Dale Carnegie

"You will regret many things in life but you will never regret being too kind or too fair." -–Brian Tracy

In the process of growing to spiritual maturity, we all go through many adolescent stages. --Miki L. Bowen

Love is not an exchange of favors. Love is something you give away.

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

INSIGHT

"Nothing is more terrible than
activity without insight."
-- Thomas Carlyle

I believe that recovery can only begin when we "see" or start to get a
glimpse of who we are and what we are dealing with . . . insight; an
insight into self.

However, the moment we begin to see must be followed by a
determined effort to discover more; digging through the denial, pain
and manipulation to the disease. Then after discovering the disease in
our lives, we must be prepared to risk talking about it --- on a daily
basis.

Recovery requires a daily desire to see, discover and talk about our
addiction --- with this insight comes recovery.

You are the light of the world; shine through my honesty.

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"Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!" Psalms 150:6

"Remember to welcome strangers, because some who have done this have welcomed angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:2

"Love your neighbor as you love yourself." Galatians 5:14

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Daily Inspiration

Each morning gives us one more chance to pray, one more chance to help another and one more chance to make this a better world. Lord, thank you for working in and through everything.

Not one day passes without receiving wonderful blessings from our loving and generous God. Lord, may I forget the irritations that distract me from Your happiness.

[bluidkiti]

February 11

Daily Reflections

February 11 - http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...4&rdm=2&rdd=11

************************************************** *********

As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

************************************************** *********

Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions
Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places
Keep It Simple

************************************************** *********

Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 7 - WORKING WITH OTHERS

Some day we hope that Alcoholics Anonymous will help the public to a better realization of the gravity of the alcoholic problem, but we shall be of little use if our attitude is one of bitterness or hostility. Drinkers will not stand for it.
After all, our problems were of our own making. Bottles were only a symbol. Besides, we have stopped fighting anybody or anything. We have to!

p. 103

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Serenity isn't freedom from the storm, it is peace within the storm.

When we release the bitterness, judgment and blame of the past, whether of ourselves or others, the past becomes a stepping stone to spiritual growth, to increased compassion, understanding and love. Today, repeat several times, "I bless my past and see it as a stepping stone to greater good." --Mary Manin Morrissey

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it. --William Arthur Ward

Great Spirit, grant that I may not criticize my neighbor until I have walked a mile in his moccasins. --Native American Proverb

Criticism, like rain, should be gentle enough to nourish a man's growth without destroying his roots. --Frank A. Clark

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

PITY

"When a man has pity on all
living creatures, then only is he
noble."
-- Buddha

We all need each other. More than this, we need to help and sustain
each other. And this concept extends beyond human beings --- the
world is full of other creatures that God has made and which make our
lives so fascinating and entertaining. Animals and plants make up our
ecological history and yet so often we rob and hurt our environment.

Recovery from alcoholism means more than putting down "the drink".
Today I am picking up a responsible attitude that makes me care, on a
spiritual level, for my world.

Lord, as I look around my world I cannot help but worship You.

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If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him. 1 John 5:14-15

"I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. Look to him, and be radiant. Psalm 34:4-5

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Daily Inspiration

God will answer our prayers if we believe, but first we must ask. Lord, I need the strength that only You can give.

God will give you strength because He will give of Himself. Lord, thank You for the many gifts of which You always bless me.

[bluidkiti]

February 12

Daily Reflections

February 12 - http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...4&rdm=2&rdd=12

************************************************** *********

As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

************************************************** *********

Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions
Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places
Keep It Simple

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Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 8 - TO WIVES *

WITH FEW EXCEPTIONS, our book thus far has spoken of men. But what we have said applies quite as much to women. Our activities in behalf of women who drink are on the increase. There is every evidence that women regain their health as readily as men if they try our suggestions.

* The fellowship of Al-Anon Family Groups was formed about thirteen years after this chapter was written. Though it is entirely separate from Alcoholics Anonymous, it uses the general principles of the A.A. program as a guide for husbands, wives, relatives, friends, and others close to alcoholics. The foregoing pages (though addressed only to wives) indicate the problems such people may face. Alateen, for teen-aged children of alcoholics, is a part of Al-Anon.
If there is no Al-Anon listing in your local telephone book, you may obtain further information on Al-Anon Family Groups by writing to its World Service Office: Box 862, Midtown Station, New York, NY 10018-0862

p. 104

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When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.

May I be an example to those whose lives touch mine. --Shelley

The man who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones. --Chinese Proverb

Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another. --Walter Elliott

There is no pillow so soft as a clear conscience. --French Proverb

You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late. --Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

FREEDOM

"Freedom comes from human
beings, rather than from laws and
institutions."
-- Clarence Darrow

The disease of alcoholism does not live in bottles or books. It lives in
people. Drug problems are people problems. Sobriety exists in the
man, not the theory.

In this sense recovery must be experienced, rather than simply talked
about. The Program is essentially not written in books or taught in
lecture rooms but is lived in the lives of people; the program stems
from the heart of man.

I believe the program is that spark of divinity that God has bestowed
upon all of us --- and we must discover it within.

Teach me to remember that to think a smile without revealing a smile
is to be grumpy.

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May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalms 19:14

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Ephesians 6:10

But you, O Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts up my head. Psalm 3:3

Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD. Psalm 150

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Daily Inspiration

Closeness with family makes us one in heart and mind. Lord, help me to fill our home with love and make it our safe haven from the troubles of the world.

Forget what you have done for others and remember what they have done for you. Lord, a gift is given freely with no expectation. May I become a truly giving person.

[bluidkiti]

February 13

Daily Reflections

February 13 - http://www.aa.org/lang/en/aareflecti...4&rdm=2&rdd=13

************************************************** *********

As Bill Sees It

http://upperpeninsulaoa.com/wp-conte...BillSeesIt.pdf
http://csoaamaine.org/absi/

************************************************** *********

Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions
Each Day a New Beginning (Women)
Food for Thought
Language of Letting Go
Today's Gift
Touchstones (Men)
Twenty-Four Hours a Day
Walk In Dry Places
Keep It Simple

************************************************** *********

Alcoholics Anonymous - First Edition

Chapter 8 - TO WIVES

But for every man who drinks others are involved—the wife who trembles in fear of the next debauch; the mother and father who see their son wasting away.

p. 104

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"Letting go of the past and not worrying about the future seems a small price to pay for all the happiness to be found in the present."

The richest man, whatever his lot, is he who is content with what he has got. --Dutch Proverb

If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else. --Booker T. Washington

God help me relax and let my answer about what to do next come naturally from you. --Melody Beattie

We are loved completely by a God who knows us completely. --Pedro A. Sandin-Fremaint

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Father Leo's Daily Meditation

REALITY

"It is the chiefest point of
happiness that man is willing to
be what he is."
-- Desiderious Erasmus

I am an alcoholic. Today I am able to love myself because I am able
to accept myself.

More than this: because I am able to accept myself, I am able to be
myself. The acceptance of my disease around alcohol has taught me
that I am not perfect, and I do not live in a perfect world --- this leads
to an acceptance of others. My pain around alcohol has given me an
insight into the sufferings of others --- and this has produced spiritual
growth.

I am happy not because I am an alcoholic but because I know that I
am an alcoholic. Today I can be what I was meant to be, rather than
the "fake" that I was becoming.

In the spiritual journey is the happiness.

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"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

'Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.' Matthew 11:28

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Daily Inspiration

Leave behind your faults and know that your past is forgiven. Lord, You have freed me to live today and allowed me to know that my future is secure in You.

Live a God-filled life and it will be only natural that you will express enthusiasm for life, joy, laughter and happiness. Lord, may the way I live always express my love for You.