Just got in from Home group
and pizza after the meeting
Inspired by the step9 sharing
YeY am well happy and its only Friday!!
Another two days yet
I have a full weekend
But not too full
Time to be me
Time to see whats going on
Time to experience each thing
Time to experience the inbetween
With people and without
Alone and not
Ordinary & Exciting
Interesting & not loafing
Simple and full at the same time
Grateful for the gifts of today
I have a simple plan
Am Tired, Goodnight
Have a good weekend all!!
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Thursday, February 22, 2007
The Butcher-The Baker-The Candlestick Maker
Or perhaps it should be The Dentist,
The Plumber and the Carpet Fitter
one of the questions on the form
when did you last visit the dentist ?
my answer.....over 10 years ago
As I now believe there are no coincidences
Its not just because I am now solvent
and have money to spend on stuff
It started during step 7
A sense of knowing and taking action in what
to spend money on ie not fixing
At this stage of our progress we are under
heavy pressure and coercion to do the right thing.
We are obliged to choose between the pains of trying
and the certain penalties of failing to do so. P74
We vigorously commenced this way of living as we cleaned
up the past. We have entered the world of the Spirit. Our
next function is to grow in understanding and effectiveness.
P84
I can continue to listen to by thinking (see below)
driven by my defects
Or take inventory, pray for defects to be removed
Have some faith and ask for help
in the right people Experts in their field
the carpet fitter and a plumber
both in my flat
and i've been to the dentist twice
all in the space of a few weeks
Did the research
Made decsions to do the right things,
let people in, to help me do things
the right things, cos i want to
not just because I need to
Before that I had lots of excuses
too skint in debt
to afraid to have anyone home
no idea what i wanted
to miserly to spend
to worried about what people think of me
already decided i would be ripped off
no reason to see these people
i would manage the way I was
wait til i really needed them
(in my opinion)
anyway my teeth are not as important
.... as carpets and decorating are they!?
Strangely
I made the decsion to see the dentist
no immediate pain or worries
just knew it was the right thing to do
(after a 10year gap) no pun intended!!
to spend money on my teeth
to maintain them seemed as important
as decorating, carpetting AND
maintaining my flat (plumbing)
Plumbing, also not essential
I could have managed longer
(in my opinion)
Again it seems that these things I have NOW
need to be maintained to a level
Flat, body, mind, spirit all need looking after
or they fall to pieces
The aging process will take effect anyway
But I will no longer use the excuses
that I have no time, I am too sick
I cant afford it, I cant take time off work,
I'll call them tomorrow, theiyll rip me off
it'll cost a fortune
not Gods will
And we have ceased fighting anything or
anyone-even alcohol. For by this time sanity
will have returned. P84
ALL that I have been given is a gift
I have choices today what I do
Or is it that I dont have a choice
... its just do the right thing
Its like resistance is difficult
Have stopped fighting anything and everyone
But havent bcome a victim
Dentist..... had a real scale and polish
more like excavate.... lots of stuff to pick out!!!
It took one check up 15 minutes and
less than half an hour treatment
1 filling, or coating no sure what its called
am sitting here with a fat lip, cheek and chin
no food or drink til and no longer numb!!!
yeah am dead lucky
thats all for 6 months
She gave me a plan
brush twice not once a day, or not atall
get a smaller toothbrush
.... cos my mouths very small (its true)
Teeth look a millions dollars
See what do I know!!!
Plumber
One days work inc sourcing the materials
Job done
Fear now gone
Suprised!
Carpet fitter
Great fun, flat now looks amazing
Did a room at a time as I decorated
over a period of a few weeks
helped me move furniture
job done, i just had to ask!!!
Decorating
Done by yours truly
Day, hours at a time, 3 rooms
Abit like step 4 needed doing thoroughly
But its so worth it!!!
So am I
.......40 minutes to go then I can eat
You said it gets better if i kept coming back
this IS all so amazing
Even in its ordinaryness
I coud not have done any of this before
God done for me what I couldnt do for myself
All I have to do was
Honesty, willingness and openminded
and keep turning up NO MATTER WHAT!!!
Oh yeh and i stopped at a wood furniture shop
on the way to dentist, to find out about having
some furniture made....
Someone once said that money WAS good for the soul
Now I do believe it
P74 AA 12 steps & 12 traditions
P84 Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous
The Plumber and the Carpet Fitter
one of the questions on the form
when did you last visit the dentist ?
my answer.....over 10 years ago
As I now believe there are no coincidences
Its not just because I am now solvent
and have money to spend on stuff
It started during step 7
A sense of knowing and taking action in what
to spend money on ie not fixing
At this stage of our progress we are under
heavy pressure and coercion to do the right thing.
We are obliged to choose between the pains of trying
and the certain penalties of failing to do so. P74
We vigorously commenced this way of living as we cleaned
up the past. We have entered the world of the Spirit. Our
next function is to grow in understanding and effectiveness.
P84
I can continue to listen to by thinking (see below)
driven by my defects
Or take inventory, pray for defects to be removed
Have some faith and ask for help
in the right people Experts in their field
the carpet fitter and a plumber
both in my flat
and i've been to the dentist twice
all in the space of a few weeks
Did the research
Made decsions to do the right things,
let people in, to help me do things
the right things, cos i want to
not just because I need to
Before that I had lots of excuses
too skint in debt
to afraid to have anyone home
no idea what i wanted
to miserly to spend
to worried about what people think of me
already decided i would be ripped off
no reason to see these people
i would manage the way I was
wait til i really needed them
(in my opinion)
anyway my teeth are not as important
.... as carpets and decorating are they!?
Strangely
I made the decsion to see the dentist
no immediate pain or worries
just knew it was the right thing to do
(after a 10year gap) no pun intended!!
to spend money on my teeth
to maintain them seemed as important
as decorating, carpetting AND
maintaining my flat (plumbing)
Plumbing, also not essential
I could have managed longer
(in my opinion)
Again it seems that these things I have NOW
need to be maintained to a level
Flat, body, mind, spirit all need looking after
or they fall to pieces
The aging process will take effect anyway
But I will no longer use the excuses
that I have no time, I am too sick
I cant afford it, I cant take time off work,
I'll call them tomorrow, theiyll rip me off
it'll cost a fortune
not Gods will
And we have ceased fighting anything or
anyone-even alcohol. For by this time sanity
will have returned. P84
ALL that I have been given is a gift
I have choices today what I do
Or is it that I dont have a choice
... its just do the right thing
Its like resistance is difficult
Have stopped fighting anything and everyone
But havent bcome a victim
Dentist..... had a real scale and polish
more like excavate.... lots of stuff to pick out!!!
It took one check up 15 minutes and
less than half an hour treatment
1 filling, or coating no sure what its called
am sitting here with a fat lip, cheek and chin
no food or drink til and no longer numb!!!
yeah am dead lucky
thats all for 6 months
She gave me a plan
brush twice not once a day, or not atall
get a smaller toothbrush
.... cos my mouths very small (its true)
Teeth look a millions dollars
See what do I know!!!
Plumber
One days work inc sourcing the materials
Job done
Fear now gone
Suprised!
Carpet fitter
Great fun, flat now looks amazing
Did a room at a time as I decorated
over a period of a few weeks
helped me move furniture
job done, i just had to ask!!!
Decorating
Done by yours truly
Day, hours at a time, 3 rooms
Abit like step 4 needed doing thoroughly
But its so worth it!!!
So am I
.......40 minutes to go then I can eat
You said it gets better if i kept coming back
this IS all so amazing
Even in its ordinaryness
I coud not have done any of this before
God done for me what I couldnt do for myself
All I have to do was
Honesty, willingness and openminded
and keep turning up NO MATTER WHAT!!!
Oh yeh and i stopped at a wood furniture shop
on the way to dentist, to find out about having
some furniture made....
Someone once said that money WAS good for the soul
Now I do believe it
P74 AA 12 steps & 12 traditions
P84 Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Step 10 & 3 Legacies
It is easy to let up on the spiritual program of action
and rest on our laurels. We are headed for trouble if we do,
for alcohol is a subtle foe. We are not cured of alcoholism.
What we really have is a daily reprieve contingent on the
maintenance of our spiritual condition.
Every day is a day when we must carry the vision of
God’s will into all of our activities.
“How can I best serve Thee-Thy will (not mine) be done.”
These are thoughts which must go with us constantly.
We can exercise our will power along this line all we wish.
It is the proper use of the will.
Much has already been said about receiving strength,
inspiration, and direction from Him who has all knowledge
and power. If we have carefully followed directions,
we have begun to sense the flow of His Spirit into us.
To some extent we have become God-conscious.
We have begun to develop this vital sixth sense.
But we must go further and that means more action.
P85 Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous
Our triangle has 3 sides
3 legacies
Unity
Service
Recovery
When am not practicing all 3 i get a little unbalanced
Dishonest even
Have to say, much fellowship and service going on
have rested up on inventory for a few days
the quality time, which i find so rewarding
has diminished..... self will...
blogging has taken over that time
motives not entirely honest
what happened to first things first
Reliance on God
I like the way I feel when I am doing all 3
so I do it to feel good
strengthen & maintain this
broadband contact with God/Good/Best
a sense of real humour
a sense of real truth
all that positive stuff that comes wth it
To Thine own self be true
Awareness & honesty
yeh back to basics again
HALT
regular inventory
prayer
helping newcomers
Progress not perfection
Practice, practice
Just a bit of action to take
It will all be ok
back soon
and rest on our laurels. We are headed for trouble if we do,
for alcohol is a subtle foe. We are not cured of alcoholism.
What we really have is a daily reprieve contingent on the
maintenance of our spiritual condition.
Every day is a day when we must carry the vision of
God’s will into all of our activities.
“How can I best serve Thee-Thy will (not mine) be done.”
These are thoughts which must go with us constantly.
We can exercise our will power along this line all we wish.
It is the proper use of the will.
Much has already been said about receiving strength,
inspiration, and direction from Him who has all knowledge
and power. If we have carefully followed directions,
we have begun to sense the flow of His Spirit into us.
To some extent we have become God-conscious.
We have begun to develop this vital sixth sense.
But we must go further and that means more action.
P85 Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous
Our triangle has 3 sides
3 legacies
Unity
Service
Recovery
When am not practicing all 3 i get a little unbalanced
Dishonest even
Have to say, much fellowship and service going on
have rested up on inventory for a few days
the quality time, which i find so rewarding
has diminished..... self will...
blogging has taken over that time
motives not entirely honest
what happened to first things first
Reliance on God
I like the way I feel when I am doing all 3
so I do it to feel good
strengthen & maintain this
broadband contact with God/Good/Best
a sense of real humour
a sense of real truth
all that positive stuff that comes wth it
To Thine own self be true
Awareness & honesty
yeh back to basics again
HALT
regular inventory
prayer
helping newcomers
Progress not perfection
Practice, practice
Just a bit of action to take
It will all be ok
back soon
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Shrove Tuesday
Today I am grateful.....
3 1/2 yrs sober
Happy Birthday Mum
AA gave me some quality time
I have some good memories
contact with brother
to have a laugh with him
to be a real part of his life
to be closer to him than EVER before
for a useful days work
am more easily open to change
for restraint of tongue and pen
for kindness and love
peoples suprising thoughtfulness
bloggers
praying works
did service tonight
I have a Loving God in my life today
I have a conscious contact with it
God wants the Best for me
....the results of these steps are evidence enough
There are NO coincidences
I put my finances in Gods hands Monday
......Let go, gave freely
I received before the day was out
There are NO coincidences this HAS
happened before...
when my MOTIVES were unconditional
grateful for tough love
that the truth ALWAYS sets me free
Gods time not mine
I am enough
I am always work in progress
for willingness
knowing what makes me comfortable
doing what makes me comfortable
having a design for living that works
for this instruction book for a bright life
..... our Big Book
for a further guidance manual
.... our twelve steps and twelve traditions
that I can do a step 10 on my NOT getting
around to having a pancake today!! :-)
God Grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change
Courage to change the things I can
and the wisdom to know the difference
Hope you had a fab shrove tuesday too
I'll make pancakes at the weekend... lots!!!
(If I remember)
Johnooooooooooooooooooo
3 1/2 yrs sober
Happy Birthday Mum
AA gave me some quality time
I have some good memories
contact with brother
to have a laugh with him
to be a real part of his life
to be closer to him than EVER before
for a useful days work
am more easily open to change
for restraint of tongue and pen
for kindness and love
peoples suprising thoughtfulness
bloggers
praying works
did service tonight
I have a Loving God in my life today
I have a conscious contact with it
God wants the Best for me
....the results of these steps are evidence enough
There are NO coincidences
I put my finances in Gods hands Monday
......Let go, gave freely
I received before the day was out
There are NO coincidences this HAS
happened before...
when my MOTIVES were unconditional
grateful for tough love
that the truth ALWAYS sets me free
Gods time not mine
I am enough
I am always work in progress
for willingness
knowing what makes me comfortable
doing what makes me comfortable
having a design for living that works
for this instruction book for a bright life
..... our Big Book
for a further guidance manual
.... our twelve steps and twelve traditions
that I can do a step 10 on my NOT getting
around to having a pancake today!! :-)
God Grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change
Courage to change the things I can
and the wisdom to know the difference
Hope you had a fab shrove tuesday too
I'll make pancakes at the weekend... lots!!!
(If I remember)
Johnooooooooooooooooooo
Monday, February 19, 2007
Step 12
Practical experience shows that nothing
will so much insure immunity from drinking
as intensive work with other alcoholics.
It works when other activities fail.
This is our twelfth suggestion:
Carry this message to other alcoholics!
You can help when no one else can.
You can secure their confidence when other fail.
Remember they are very ill. P89
I had no idea of the depth & gravity
of this statement when I was
CONTINUALLY reminded from
very early on
to go to a meeting and help a newcomer
...when i felt miserable!!
It works
no longer miserable
continuing to follow the suggestion
taking it out into the work place
social stuff
Knowing when to
restrain tongue & not to give advice
and when to share experience
takes practice!!
Praying for people helps
Someone said the 12th step is like
when we stop looking for mirrors and
start looking out of the windows
(i think i may be opening the curtains)
P89 Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous
will so much insure immunity from drinking
as intensive work with other alcoholics.
It works when other activities fail.
This is our twelfth suggestion:
Carry this message to other alcoholics!
You can help when no one else can.
You can secure their confidence when other fail.
Remember they are very ill. P89
I had no idea of the depth & gravity
of this statement when I was
CONTINUALLY reminded from
very early on
to go to a meeting and help a newcomer
...when i felt miserable!!
It works
no longer miserable
continuing to follow the suggestion
taking it out into the work place
social stuff
Knowing when to
restrain tongue & not to give advice
and when to share experience
takes practice!!
Praying for people helps
Someone said the 12th step is like
when we stop looking for mirrors and
start looking out of the windows
(i think i may be opening the curtains)
P89 Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous
Sunday, February 18, 2007
I am so excited
Last year it seemed like "everyone" around here
was raving on about the Greeek Convention
and the year before
the year before that I wasnt listening!!
This year its working its way in me
if you know what I mean
Seed was planted a few years ago
its starting to flower
Putting in the footwork
Finding out
Speaking to "ok" people thats been
people who tell me their truth
God am i excited
Never been to Athens either
YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY
can you feel it ?
At the same time tho
Letting go of the outcome
Then GET THIS....
I asked him.... is it near Rome? :-O
see my global knowledge currently
is a little off beam
:-D
was raving on about the Greeek Convention
and the year before
the year before that I wasnt listening!!
This year its working its way in me
if you know what I mean
Seed was planted a few years ago
its starting to flower
Putting in the footwork
Finding out
Speaking to "ok" people thats been
people who tell me their truth
God am i excited
Never been to Athens either
YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY
can you feel it ?
At the same time tho
Letting go of the outcome
Then GET THIS....
I asked him.... is it near Rome? :-O
see my global knowledge currently
is a little off beam
:-D
Saturday, February 17, 2007
As usual theres more
So thursday night I happily put my pen down
I thought I had finished my list
As per usual step 8 meeting last night
loads of top sharing on the step
me yeh finished my list
it came to me half way through the meeting
I havent listed my sexual harms DOH!!!!!
so theres more, no big deal
It takes as long as it takes
Thoroughly? honestly? yes yes
Any length ? yes
Also
physical, mental, spiritual
The heavyness in my heart is lifting
"Cough & Head cold lifting
Admitted & accepted am human being
around this tim last year i was nursing my sick mum
its her birthday on monday
this time last year she was dying
Head cold.... yeh all linked
this aint no bug, virus
this is all linked to the grieving process
the more I let go and just stop fighting the process
the easier the physical symptoms seem to be
the healing process will happen
I cant make it as painful and prolonged as I like
Thank God my step10's show me EXACTLY
where I am playing God
Exactly where I am trying to control
myself, my feelings, my tears, my thoughts and why
Fear and Pride, Fear and pride, Fear and Pride
Impatience & lots of self will
Will read step3 again tonight
I ask myself, who is in charge ?
In Step 8 I have felt a sense that I am
I am putting aside the wrongs others have done me
and writing a list of all people I have harmed
So it seems the Spiritual principle of Step 8 is
.....Forgiveness of others REGARDLESS
I thought I had finished my list
As per usual step 8 meeting last night
loads of top sharing on the step
me yeh finished my list
it came to me half way through the meeting
I havent listed my sexual harms DOH!!!!!
so theres more, no big deal
It takes as long as it takes
Thoroughly? honestly? yes yes
Any length ? yes
Also
physical, mental, spiritual
The heavyness in my heart is lifting
"Cough & Head cold lifting
Admitted & accepted am human being
around this tim last year i was nursing my sick mum
its her birthday on monday
this time last year she was dying
Head cold.... yeh all linked
this aint no bug, virus
this is all linked to the grieving process
the more I let go and just stop fighting the process
the easier the physical symptoms seem to be
the healing process will happen
I cant make it as painful and prolonged as I like
Thank God my step10's show me EXACTLY
where I am playing God
Exactly where I am trying to control
myself, my feelings, my tears, my thoughts and why
Fear and Pride, Fear and pride, Fear and Pride
Impatience & lots of self will
Will read step3 again tonight
I ask myself, who is in charge ?
In Step 8 I have felt a sense that I am
I am putting aside the wrongs others have done me
and writing a list of all people I have harmed
So it seems the Spiritual principle of Step 8 is
.....Forgiveness of others REGARDLESS
Labels:
Defects,
Forgiveness,
Gods Will,
Resentment,
Step 10,
Step 3,
Step 8,
Trust the Process
Friday, February 16, 2007
Questions for Conference
Created much comments tonight
some sayalot
some say a little
some agree
some dont
Its fab having a home group
that discusses questions for conference
We have a wealth of experience
at group, intergroup, region and conference levels
I came in to the meeting with my view
and then it changed, as a result of the evidence
presented from AA literature, by "older" group members
This is cool stuff
Am becoming a GSR thats interested in
the guidelines, reading Bill W's concepts
AA literature... all of it is such a gift
as is often said
AA is Divinely Inspired
Much of the writing is visionary
It doesnt date
Easy to use stuff that works in all my affairs
Another part of this "design for living" p28
It dont all make sense if i read it to know
to feed my ego, make me knowledgeable...
It makes sense when its meant to when its needed
When I need to know, I am shown
Service Rocks!!
P28 Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous
some sayalot
some say a little
some agree
some dont
Its fab having a home group
that discusses questions for conference
We have a wealth of experience
at group, intergroup, region and conference levels
I came in to the meeting with my view
and then it changed, as a result of the evidence
presented from AA literature, by "older" group members
This is cool stuff
Am becoming a GSR thats interested in
the guidelines, reading Bill W's concepts
AA literature... all of it is such a gift
as is often said
AA is Divinely Inspired
Much of the writing is visionary
It doesnt date
Easy to use stuff that works in all my affairs
Another part of this "design for living" p28
It dont all make sense if i read it to know
to feed my ego, make me knowledgeable...
It makes sense when its meant to when its needed
When I need to know, I am shown
Service Rocks!!
P28 Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Tradition 7 in my affairs
I am amazed
The fear of what people think of me is disappearing
Brother wants me to lend X amount of money
I would like to help
Fear - he wont pay me back
Pride - he'll think bad of me cos i cant lend him it all,
Self will - I havent all that he needs
Freedom - its not my job to fix him
Freedom - doesnt matter what he thinks of me
Fear - it will leave me short...
Tradition 7
pay my bills & food,
keep a prudent reserve
Freedom from financial insecurity
Willingness to lend the remainder
Peace of mind I have enough
Unconditional giving,
willingness to forgive him if he lets me down
faith that it will be ok whatever happens
My needs are always satisfied
Thank you
Step 8 - Made a list - done it
The fear of what people think of me is disappearing
Brother wants me to lend X amount of money
I would like to help
Fear - he wont pay me back
Pride - he'll think bad of me cos i cant lend him it all,
Self will - I havent all that he needs
Freedom - its not my job to fix him
Freedom - doesnt matter what he thinks of me
Fear - it will leave me short...
Tradition 7
pay my bills & food,
keep a prudent reserve
Freedom from financial insecurity
Willingness to lend the remainder
Peace of mind I have enough
Unconditional giving,
willingness to forgive him if he lets me down
faith that it will be ok whatever happens
My needs are always satisfied
Thank you
Step 8 - Made a list - done it
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Valentines Day
Due to the fact that I am prone to fantasy
and would twist a coffee with anyone into a lead up
to marriage, kids and happily ever after before we
have even paid for the coffee.
For my own sanity if no-one elses
I will stay in and do my Step 8
Friend begged me to go out for coffee after work
before going home, their partner wont mind etc....
tempting wasnt it... til my mind started playing,
well perhaps theres something in it, maybe worth
going, nearly on step9.... perhaps, perhaps....STOP
Lust, dishonesty.......no please
Stayed in, Step 8, good food, called a newcomer
bed early
peace, no fantasy, no self pity
Thank you
and would twist a coffee with anyone into a lead up
to marriage, kids and happily ever after before we
have even paid for the coffee.
For my own sanity if no-one elses
I will stay in and do my Step 8
Friend begged me to go out for coffee after work
before going home, their partner wont mind etc....
tempting wasnt it... til my mind started playing,
well perhaps theres something in it, maybe worth
going, nearly on step9.... perhaps, perhaps....STOP
Lust, dishonesty.......no please
Stayed in, Step 8, good food, called a newcomer
bed early
peace, no fantasy, no self pity
Thank you
Labels:
Any Lengths,
Defects,
Gratitude,
Honesty,
Step 8,
What it is like now
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Old Ideas - what i need or what i want
Large retail parks, warehouses, huge expanses of space
Filled with things which I think i need some of
Truth is I dont.... today
But again today I was with someone who was going
So I went along, thinking there may be something I need
Something new, from the last time i went to one
which i didnt need anything last time
No, once again I dont
The stuff i may need, i can pick up locally
when i need it
no need to get it today just incase
It has been a beautiful day
Sun shone this morning
Got a lift to another part of town
Listened to someone talk about themselves
Was of service
talked about me for abit
Someone showed me in my face alcohol & insanity
how frightening it can be to fear telling the truth
seeing what a cornered animal looks like
in the form of a human, on the jumping off point
gripped, scared, a 6foot toddler...
food and friends
still have some bug
no decorating today
further sleeping, must need it
Good night, its been satisfactory :-)
Which is what was promised
thank you
Filled with things which I think i need some of
Truth is I dont.... today
But again today I was with someone who was going
So I went along, thinking there may be something I need
Something new, from the last time i went to one
which i didnt need anything last time
No, once again I dont
The stuff i may need, i can pick up locally
when i need it
no need to get it today just incase
It has been a beautiful day
Sun shone this morning
Got a lift to another part of town
Listened to someone talk about themselves
Was of service
talked about me for abit
Someone showed me in my face alcohol & insanity
how frightening it can be to fear telling the truth
seeing what a cornered animal looks like
in the form of a human, on the jumping off point
gripped, scared, a 6foot toddler...
food and friends
still have some bug
no decorating today
further sleeping, must need it
Good night, its been satisfactory :-)
Which is what was promised
thank you
Labels:
Fellowship,
Gratitude,
H.A.L.T,
Honesty,
Step 1,
Three Legacies,
What it is like now
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Moment of clarity
Got a warm feeling of gratitude today
Grateful to have choices
for a freedom
for a moment of clarity
my thinking is not the root of the problem
my defects are
giving time time to sink in
thinking my thinking is the root...
is also acting out out on my defects
it doesnt say
...ready to have God remove our thinking
gift to be enjoying my current security
gift to enjoy making my home comfortable
decorating it myself
researching & doing
new carpets
am worth it... another gift
have friends
have job
am of use
this is a gift
having a relationship with a loving God
is taking time to get used to
but its so worth the effort
no i dont understand it
no i am not sure if i get it right
it dont seem to matter
just keeping on
Happy January
Warm Feeling... The only other warm feeling
was at the end of an evening and couldnt get to a bathroom
There but for the grace of God Go I
And I just switched to New Blogger...
...and lost all my links
... enjoying the adventure
Grateful to have choices
for a freedom
for a moment of clarity
my thinking is not the root of the problem
my defects are
giving time time to sink in
thinking my thinking is the root...
is also acting out out on my defects
it doesnt say
...ready to have God remove our thinking
gift to be enjoying my current security
gift to enjoy making my home comfortable
decorating it myself
researching & doing
new carpets
am worth it... another gift
have friends
have job
am of use
this is a gift
having a relationship with a loving God
is taking time to get used to
but its so worth the effort
no i dont understand it
no i am not sure if i get it right
it dont seem to matter
just keeping on
Happy January
Warm Feeling... The only other warm feeling
was at the end of an evening and couldnt get to a bathroom
There but for the grace of God Go I
And I just switched to New Blogger...
...and lost all my links
... enjoying the adventure
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Big wave is levelling out
Anniversary has come & gone
day at a time
Doing whats in front of me
Trust God
Clean House
help others
honesty
openminded
willingness
Keep on, keeping on
Life will mean something at last.
The most satisfactory years of your existence lie ahead. P152
no drama
self centred fear that something bad would happen after so much gratitude
Things will happen whether am grateful or not
Fear is a red herring my head throws at me every so often
it brings self pity & misery
Grateful for the ordinary, its taking a little getting used to
page ref Alcoholics Anonymous "big book"
day at a time
Doing whats in front of me
Trust God
Clean House
help others
honesty
openminded
willingness
Keep on, keeping on
Life will mean something at last.
The most satisfactory years of your existence lie ahead. P152
no drama
self centred fear that something bad would happen after so much gratitude
Things will happen whether am grateful or not
Fear is a red herring my head throws at me every so often
it brings self pity & misery
Grateful for the ordinary, its taking a little getting used to
page ref Alcoholics Anonymous "big book"
Monday, August 21, 2006
God sent us Simon & Garfunkel
Bridge Over Trouble Water
When you’re weary,
feeling small,
When tears are in your eyes,
I will dry them all;
I’m on your side.
When times get rough
And friends just can’t be found,
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down.
When you’re down and out,
When you’re on the street,
When evening falls so hard
I will comfort you.
I’ll take your part.
When darkness comes
And pain is all around,
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down.
Sail on silvergirl,
Sail on by.
Your time has come to shine.
All your dreams are on their way.
See how they shine
If you need a friend
I’m sailing right behind.
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind.
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind.
© 1969 Paul Simon
When you’re weary,
feeling small,
When tears are in your eyes,
I will dry them all;
I’m on your side.
When times get rough
And friends just can’t be found,
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down.
When you’re down and out,
When you’re on the street,
When evening falls so hard
I will comfort you.
I’ll take your part.
When darkness comes
And pain is all around,
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down.
Sail on silvergirl,
Sail on by.
Your time has come to shine.
All your dreams are on their way.
See how they shine
If you need a friend
I’m sailing right behind.
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind.
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind.
© 1969 Paul Simon
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Entered the Realm of spirit, a 4th dimension
19th August 2003 I had my last drink
A failed attempt to control my drink & not get drunk
I rolled in abit earlier than now
my boss had commented on how glazed my eyes look
I could hardly walk up the stairs in the restaurant
I had embarrased my manager
I had got flirty with an someone i wouldnt have gone near sober
I didnt get off with who i wanted
incontinent
need i say more
This 3rd year has been all about letting go
Letting go absolutely
of
fixing on pornography
living in fantasy
sponsor
self will
homegroup
relying on humans to relieve my alcoholism
christmas (my old idea of)
self will
ideas of Gods Power
self will
ideas of the power of prayer
mum
ministers are inflexible
I will never be good at my job
Self will
having money will make me happy inside
ideas about my own abilities
Self will
ideas about whats possible
belief that am not good enough
ideas about Gods plan for me
in fact all my frikkin ideas !!
By making yet another decision to turn my will & my life over to the care of God (as I understand him)
Continue to take personal inventory
Pray loads
trust another sponsor
pray specifically for my defects to be removed
trust that God could & would if he were sought
Trust the programme
trust myself
Have Faith
Do the right things
Keep doing the right things
Follow the spiritual principles
Allow for imperfection
Forgiveness of self and others
Stay honest
Stay open mindedness
Stay very willing
Put my recovery first
keep turning up even when i really not sure why
Accept that i just am rubbish at predicting the future
Am grateful I cant (i would have had a restless, irritable & discontented year)
I tell you this has been the best ever yet
It says "If he is to find God - the desire must come from within" P95
The desire came last year
I really fought the feeling but had to eventually surrender to the fact
that for this alcoholic
No human power could relieve my alcoholism
Thats NO person
I threw myself at Him (God) absolutely
I had no choice
I just knew it was the answer
And it was
That was the year that was... all about me & God becoming friends
Me doing what seemed to be Gods will for me
Its been like ahem easier...
Almost like it was the "easier softer way"
Amazing GOD YOU ARE AMAZING
So to end on
The manager I embarrased 3 years ago tonight, he has seen me turn up to work & barely do work. we had many a chat but I just couldnt change.
The same man, I havent seen for 2 years, he left our company
he called my up 4weeks ago & offered me a job
a job that its now very obvious that I am good at & enjoy NOWADAYS
he & his colleague will pay me a very good salary
i have become useful & sought after
I have a reputation of being reliable
I have integrity am fully armed about the facts about my abilities in the workplace today
I told them my strong points & my flaws ...
and they still want me, the truth has set me free
They have are giving me everything I negotiated & more
I am giving them my imperfect & very humble hardworking self
I am an alcoholic
I doing the steps with a sponsor
An i got offered this job that in my heart I can do 90% of & the rest can learn, thats a combination of ALL my strongest points in my last 5 jobs and they'll pay me more than I ever earned before with potential for more
GOD IS AMAZING
It would be insane not to to go and do it...
I start September 11th...
A day also of quiet reflection for us all
I made a statement about a year and a half ago that I would NEVER have a gym membership again. I have had many, turned up for about 2 months & then had to pay for the rest of the year. This new job, has FREE membership for the gym/swim thats situated in the building for anyone that works there. God really does have a sense of humour :-) As always doing for me what I cant/wont do for myself.
When we drew near to Him, He disclosed Himself to us! P57
thats whats happened to me & its lovely
Am grateful for everything, everything
Am grateful I am now beginning to accept the things I cannot change, have the willingness to change the things I can, the courage to ask God to help me change what I cant & some wisdom & a fellowship to help me see the things that aren't be changed YET
Am going to bed. Tomorrow I will be 3 years & on day 1 again
Thank you for all those who posted while I havent been
Much appreciated
xx
All page ref Alcoholics Anonymous (Big Book) 4th Edition
A failed attempt to control my drink & not get drunk
I rolled in abit earlier than now
my boss had commented on how glazed my eyes look
I could hardly walk up the stairs in the restaurant
I had embarrased my manager
I had got flirty with an someone i wouldnt have gone near sober
I didnt get off with who i wanted
incontinent
need i say more
This 3rd year has been all about letting go
Letting go absolutely
of
fixing on pornography
living in fantasy
sponsor
self will
homegroup
relying on humans to relieve my alcoholism
christmas (my old idea of)
self will
ideas of Gods Power
self will
ideas of the power of prayer
mum
ministers are inflexible
I will never be good at my job
Self will
having money will make me happy inside
ideas about my own abilities
Self will
ideas about whats possible
belief that am not good enough
ideas about Gods plan for me
in fact all my frikkin ideas !!
By making yet another decision to turn my will & my life over to the care of God (as I understand him)
Continue to take personal inventory
Pray loads
trust another sponsor
pray specifically for my defects to be removed
trust that God could & would if he were sought
Trust the programme
trust myself
Have Faith
Do the right things
Keep doing the right things
Follow the spiritual principles
Allow for imperfection
Forgiveness of self and others
Stay honest
Stay open mindedness
Stay very willing
Put my recovery first
keep turning up even when i really not sure why
Accept that i just am rubbish at predicting the future
Am grateful I cant (i would have had a restless, irritable & discontented year)
I tell you this has been the best ever yet
It says "If he is to find God - the desire must come from within" P95
The desire came last year
I really fought the feeling but had to eventually surrender to the fact
that for this alcoholic
No human power could relieve my alcoholism
Thats NO person
I threw myself at Him (God) absolutely
I had no choice
I just knew it was the answer
And it was
That was the year that was... all about me & God becoming friends
Me doing what seemed to be Gods will for me
Its been like ahem easier...
Almost like it was the "easier softer way"
Amazing GOD YOU ARE AMAZING
So to end on
The manager I embarrased 3 years ago tonight, he has seen me turn up to work & barely do work. we had many a chat but I just couldnt change.
The same man, I havent seen for 2 years, he left our company
he called my up 4weeks ago & offered me a job
a job that its now very obvious that I am good at & enjoy NOWADAYS
he & his colleague will pay me a very good salary
i have become useful & sought after
I have a reputation of being reliable
I have integrity am fully armed about the facts about my abilities in the workplace today
I told them my strong points & my flaws ...
and they still want me, the truth has set me free
They have are giving me everything I negotiated & more
I am giving them my imperfect & very humble hardworking self
I am an alcoholic
I doing the steps with a sponsor
An i got offered this job that in my heart I can do 90% of & the rest can learn, thats a combination of ALL my strongest points in my last 5 jobs and they'll pay me more than I ever earned before with potential for more
GOD IS AMAZING
It would be insane not to to go and do it...
I start September 11th...
A day also of quiet reflection for us all
I made a statement about a year and a half ago that I would NEVER have a gym membership again. I have had many, turned up for about 2 months & then had to pay for the rest of the year. This new job, has FREE membership for the gym/swim thats situated in the building for anyone that works there. God really does have a sense of humour :-) As always doing for me what I cant/wont do for myself.
When we drew near to Him, He disclosed Himself to us! P57
thats whats happened to me & its lovely
Am grateful for everything, everything
Am grateful I am now beginning to accept the things I cannot change, have the willingness to change the things I can, the courage to ask God to help me change what I cant & some wisdom & a fellowship to help me see the things that aren't be changed YET
Am going to bed. Tomorrow I will be 3 years & on day 1 again
Thank you for all those who posted while I havent been
Much appreciated
xx
All page ref Alcoholics Anonymous (Big Book) 4th Edition
Sunday, April 23, 2006
A quarter of a year has past.....
Since I last blogged.
January
Mum got sick
February
she got sicker
March
She died
The amazing thing is all through this I have been looked after...
I have had an inner strength which i cannot explain
At times when i would have expected full on self pity there was none
when I expected greed, there was none
when I expected sulking, there was very little
What I have now is to allow myself to grieve
bit not wallow in self pity & analysis
to allow the truth to come about the relationship
the real stuff
To share with God what i feel, felt is a gift
to be able to cry is a gift
to comfort rather than to be comforted
to allow people to love me in their own way
to understand rather than to be understood
to keep showing up
to allow my imperfect self to show up
to be able to greive is a gift, some people never get this
some people i hear, get married in grief
some people bottle up and breakdown years later
I kept on with my best on each day
have the willingness to step up a gear when i can
progress not perfection
I have just Step4 a year of dishonesty, seen how much i was using, relying, depending upon people to get me through.
Interestingly for me, the last 4days of this step4, each time i sat down to do it I had a vivid taste & smell of vodka which wouldnt shift.
The disease of my mind is very powerful it really wants me drinking.
I checked everything, nothing in food, washing powder nothing...its all centred in the mind.
Recently trudging became harder, sludging really
I questioned my labor, my actions.
Yes always room for improvement to be made
But I wasnt able
Tired, exhausted
upset, sleepless nights
nightmares
simple jobs became difficult & impossible
unmanageable...
sounds like untreated alcohol
grieving over the loss of someone, instead of something...alcohol
Stayed honest & willing & openminded...
THIS TOO SHALL PASS
I started to get lonely, no identification
I had to check in with other greivers as my family were just FINE!!!
As soon as i checked out the symptoms of grief
Identification, ok I accept
now the road am trudging isnt as sludgy
its levelling out again
the lack of fellow people grievers doesnt seem to matter
grief seems to have similar symptoms regardless of whether its people places & things.
same symptoms we just suffer them at different degrees at different times
well thats how it is for me anyway
ITS PASSING
as usual I am grateful
for having an unshakeable faith in honesty
For step10's
For a gentle loving God
For being very sober
for the willlingness to try
for trying to hear Gods will not mine
for trying to do Gods will not mine
for losing this faulty dependence upon people
for noticing this reliance on God can also bring about an arrogance
for remembering I am not God, just trying to do Gods will
for being ready to not let my defects take control
For everything AA has given me so far
For having been born (thanks mum)
For understanding a little more about the meaning of life
Unity, Recovery, Service
Unconditional Love
Progress not perfection
Keep coming back
January
Mum got sick
February
she got sicker
March
She died
The amazing thing is all through this I have been looked after...
I have had an inner strength which i cannot explain
At times when i would have expected full on self pity there was none
when I expected greed, there was none
when I expected sulking, there was very little
What I have now is to allow myself to grieve
bit not wallow in self pity & analysis
to allow the truth to come about the relationship
the real stuff
To share with God what i feel, felt is a gift
to be able to cry is a gift
to comfort rather than to be comforted
to allow people to love me in their own way
to understand rather than to be understood
to keep showing up
to allow my imperfect self to show up
to be able to greive is a gift, some people never get this
some people i hear, get married in grief
some people bottle up and breakdown years later
I kept on with my best on each day
have the willingness to step up a gear when i can
progress not perfection
I have just Step4 a year of dishonesty, seen how much i was using, relying, depending upon people to get me through.
Interestingly for me, the last 4days of this step4, each time i sat down to do it I had a vivid taste & smell of vodka which wouldnt shift.
The disease of my mind is very powerful it really wants me drinking.
I checked everything, nothing in food, washing powder nothing...its all centred in the mind.
Recently trudging became harder, sludging really
I questioned my labor, my actions.
Yes always room for improvement to be made
But I wasnt able
Tired, exhausted
upset, sleepless nights
nightmares
simple jobs became difficult & impossible
unmanageable...
sounds like untreated alcohol
grieving over the loss of someone, instead of something...alcohol
Stayed honest & willing & openminded...
THIS TOO SHALL PASS
I started to get lonely, no identification
I had to check in with other greivers as my family were just FINE!!!
As soon as i checked out the symptoms of grief
Identification, ok I accept
now the road am trudging isnt as sludgy
its levelling out again
the lack of fellow people grievers doesnt seem to matter
grief seems to have similar symptoms regardless of whether its people places & things.
same symptoms we just suffer them at different degrees at different times
well thats how it is for me anyway
ITS PASSING
as usual I am grateful
for having an unshakeable faith in honesty
For step10's
For a gentle loving God
For being very sober
for the willlingness to try
for trying to hear Gods will not mine
for trying to do Gods will not mine
for losing this faulty dependence upon people
for noticing this reliance on God can also bring about an arrogance
for remembering I am not God, just trying to do Gods will
for being ready to not let my defects take control
For everything AA has given me so far
For having been born (thanks mum)
For understanding a little more about the meaning of life
Unity, Recovery, Service
Unconditional Love
Progress not perfection
Keep coming back
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Thank you
I am grateful for
all the
thoughts
prayers
wisdom
experience
strength
hope
truth
love
thats been sent to me via blogging
also grateful for
being sober
a productive day
improving my conscious contact
listening
being willing
being openminded
Being granted
acceptance of things i cannot change
having the courage to change the things i can
and knowing the wisdom to know the difference
just for today anyway
Lots a love
Johno
xx
100th post. not sure of the significance.
:-)
all the
thoughts
prayers
wisdom
experience
strength
hope
truth
love
thats been sent to me via blogging
also grateful for
being sober
a productive day
improving my conscious contact
listening
being willing
being openminded
Being granted
acceptance of things i cannot change
having the courage to change the things i can
and knowing the wisdom to know the difference
just for today anyway
Lots a love
Johno
xx
100th post. not sure of the significance.
:-)
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Today
I am grateful for
Mum started chemo
I am happy
jobs going well
got a pay rise
no longer being a drain on the company
being useful
applying for supervisor role
believing am worth it... applying
accepting I may not get it
applying anyway
being willing to try
home group
newcomers
having something to pass on
passing it on and letting go
not trying to be an expert
preparing for my trip
not being perfect
being sober
having faith in God
being a part of
loving living
Mum started chemo
I am happy
jobs going well
got a pay rise
no longer being a drain on the company
being useful
applying for supervisor role
believing am worth it... applying
accepting I may not get it
applying anyway
being willing to try
home group
newcomers
having something to pass on
passing it on and letting go
not trying to be an expert
preparing for my trip
not being perfect
being sober
having faith in God
being a part of
loving living
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Chocolate fudge cake
Went out tonight
I amaze myself at times
went to a restaurant
no weirdness
no feeling less than
just keep it simple
no ego
just be me
listened
took part
ate
talked
with people i dont even know
fitted in
strange but true
felt normal
present
in the moment
fuckinell
it was easy
what happened ???
with people i dont know not in the fellowship
left at a reasonable time
i had fun
Bizarre, i like this
Insanity
around the chocolate fudge cake
I rarely eat many deserts, its true
if i do, i generally choose choc fudge cake
dunno why
i love half of it
everytime i try and eat it all
everytime, i feel sick after
its too rich
too thick
but tastes mmm
i cant stop half way
i have tooo try and eat the lot
even though i know at a certain point its time to stop
I cant
I carry on till the bitter end
which is usually three quarters in
and then wonder what happened again....
it never changes
Good job I have a sense of humus, humour
Is it a problem ? nah not really
gluttony once in a while
exersizing my will on chocolate cake
and suffering the consequences
in company I dont know and laughing about it
Rule 62# Dont take yourself so damn seriously
(Steps & Traditions)
just part of the wonderful world of Johno
Think am getting this...how to do restaurants
practice, keep on, practice, keep on
keep turning up and just do it
Thank you for another sober & useful day
I amaze myself at times
went to a restaurant
no weirdness
no feeling less than
just keep it simple
no ego
just be me
listened
took part
ate
talked
with people i dont even know
fitted in
strange but true
felt normal
present
in the moment
fuckinell
it was easy
what happened ???
with people i dont know not in the fellowship
left at a reasonable time
i had fun
Bizarre, i like this
Insanity
around the chocolate fudge cake
I rarely eat many deserts, its true
if i do, i generally choose choc fudge cake
dunno why
i love half of it
everytime i try and eat it all
everytime, i feel sick after
its too rich
too thick
but tastes mmm
i cant stop half way
i have tooo try and eat the lot
even though i know at a certain point its time to stop
I cant
I carry on till the bitter end
which is usually three quarters in
and then wonder what happened again....
it never changes
Good job I have a sense of humus, humour
Is it a problem ? nah not really
gluttony once in a while
exersizing my will on chocolate cake
and suffering the consequences
in company I dont know and laughing about it
Rule 62# Dont take yourself so damn seriously
(Steps & Traditions)
just part of the wonderful world of Johno
Think am getting this...how to do restaurants
practice, keep on, practice, keep on
keep turning up and just do it
Thank you for another sober & useful day
Saturday, January 21, 2006
Cant think of a title Yet
Continue to watch for selfishness,
dishonesty, resentment, and fear. When these
crop up, we ask God at once to remove them. We discuss
them with someone immediately and make amends
quickly if we have harmed anyone. Then we resolutely
turn our thoughts to someone we can help. Love and
tolerance of others is our code. P84 Alcoholics Anonymous
I am grateful
This week, I have experienced
human emotions, feelings
uncrippled emotions, feelings
and dealt with them as they came up
not tried to meddle
not tried to deny
not wallowed
just felt
real powerful feelings, emotions
identified them
and let them remain in the day
which is a blessing as different ones came up each day
Its an amazing experience living sober
I have no wish to escape whats going on
infact in a surreal way, I welcome it
inspite of the pain I have felt this week
I want to keep on
I want to experience
I want to take part
I want to be part of
this family is going through something
every family goes through at some point
we are not special or different
everyones mum/sister/whatever dies at somepoint
they dont all die by the same lead up thats all
She aint dying yet
she starts chemo monday
I get to see her saturday
We get to spend time in the present
I have/am clearing away away my resentments
addressing my defective thinking
Restraint of tongue and pen is progressing
doing my part in clearing the channel
between me and my Higher power
Put in the footwork
let go of the outcome
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
P102 Alcoholics Anonymous
I will
I was doing the right things because I ought to
Now I am doing the right things because I want to
God has done again for me what I couldnt do for myself
My faith is enlarging
My reliance on God is progressing steadily
Real life is do-able
A day at a time
Keep on keeping on
Doing my lousy best
What seemed at first a flimsy reed, has proved
to be the loving and powerful hand of God.
A new life has been given us or, if you
prefer, "a design for living" that really works.
P28 Alcoholics Anonymous
Thank you
dishonesty, resentment, and fear. When these
crop up, we ask God at once to remove them. We discuss
them with someone immediately and make amends
quickly if we have harmed anyone. Then we resolutely
turn our thoughts to someone we can help. Love and
tolerance of others is our code. P84 Alcoholics Anonymous
I am grateful
This week, I have experienced
human emotions, feelings
uncrippled emotions, feelings
and dealt with them as they came up
not tried to meddle
not tried to deny
not wallowed
just felt
real powerful feelings, emotions
identified them
and let them remain in the day
which is a blessing as different ones came up each day
Its an amazing experience living sober
I have no wish to escape whats going on
infact in a surreal way, I welcome it
inspite of the pain I have felt this week
I want to keep on
I want to experience
I want to take part
I want to be part of
this family is going through something
every family goes through at some point
we are not special or different
everyones mum/sister/whatever dies at somepoint
they dont all die by the same lead up thats all
She aint dying yet
she starts chemo monday
I get to see her saturday
We get to spend time in the present
I have/am clearing away away my resentments
addressing my defective thinking
Restraint of tongue and pen is progressing
doing my part in clearing the channel
between me and my Higher power
Put in the footwork
let go of the outcome
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
P102 Alcoholics Anonymous
I will
I was doing the right things because I ought to
Now I am doing the right things because I want to
God has done again for me what I couldnt do for myself
My faith is enlarging
My reliance on God is progressing steadily
Real life is do-able
A day at a time
Keep on keeping on
Doing my lousy best
What seemed at first a flimsy reed, has proved
to be the loving and powerful hand of God.
A new life has been given us or, if you
prefer, "a design for living" that really works.
P28 Alcoholics Anonymous
Thank you
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