Recovery An Everyday Clean Whenever I’m frustrated in my program or in life, or when my selfish, lazy self wants an easy way out, I try to remember that abstinence is like cleanliness. One bath, one toothbrushing, one housecleaning doesn’t last for a week, month, or year—certainly not for a lifetime. Each day I must work at cleanliness if I want the benefits. My … Read More
Gratitude Recovery Home Truths Here am I thinking, now that I’m an abstinent member of OA, it automatically means I’m an outstanding citizen within my family. But eavesdropping on a conversation between my wife and son lands a bombshell of a home truth in my lap. My son asks, “Mammy, do you ever wake up grumpy?” My wife replies, “Sometimes!” Then, after a substantial pause, “And sometimes I let him sleep on!” Dumbfounded, … Read More
Share It Still Learning Just wanted to send a belated “thank-you” for the July 2017 stories. I especially felt blessed by the Step Study story “How I Ask”. The author identified one of my most troublesome defects, obsession with control, and then offered a helpful clarification: “or illusions of control.” What I have to keep learning is that I actually have control over very … Read More
Journal Questions Box Step “Our path in OA transcends weight loss and a return to emotional health.” —Seeking the Spiritual Path I used what I call my “God Box” yesterday and the day before because I was desperate to rid myself of all the negativity, insecurity, and despair I was feeling—and even hatred. I was so alone . . . at least I felt … Read More
