Burn the idea into the consciousness of every man that he can get well regardless of anyone. The only condition is that he trust in God and clean house. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 98
Dealing with expectations is a frequent topic at meetings. It isn’t wrong to expect progress of myself, good things from life, or decent treatment from others. Where I get into trouble is when my expectations become demands. I will fall short of what I wish to be and situations will go in ways I do not like, because people will let me down sometimes. The only question is: “What am I going to about it?” Wallow in self-pity or anger; retaliate and make a bad situation worse; or will I trust in God’s power to bring blessings on the messes in which I find myself? Will I ask Him what I should be learning; do I keep on doing the right things I know how to do, no matter what; do I take the time to share my faith and blessings with others?
{ 5 comments }
As ever, today’s reflection is spot on for me. I have felt greatly let down this last week, and it has lead me on a very dark downward spiral. I nearly didn’t make it back. But I’m still here, still sober & regaining a little more strength hour by hour. I thank God for his grace, this programme & the fellowship of AA. That combination has saved my life this week. Again.
Following the Serenity Prayer, I think I will start adding: “God, Bless this Mess.” Knowing God is in the worst messes conceivable – I can look to God in every WCS (Worst Case Scenario). And then I can ask God (the god of my understanding) for help. Knowing God is there is awesome and powerful. I don’t have to panic or fear!
Powerful! I don’t want to lose the growing Peace and Serenity in my life. Messes happen as do WCS’s. I am going to seize the day!
Bob
Good Morning from Canada
When I read the Daily Reflection this morning, I realize how important it is for me to “Let Go ad Let God. I use to have so many expectations for myself and others. Now, that I have surrendered to my Higher Power, I am at peace and don’t have to control myself or other. For me God is Love, and I try to look at my situation with love and ask myself, what would God do? I had to stop living in Fear and turn it around and start living in the Sun Light of the Spirit. I became willing to let God will, not mine be done. I am so grateful for this program, and the fellowship.
Ricky alcoholic addict
This hits home today. Having one of those truths about what i did way back then some drinking some not some fact some not from my son and wife is just getting the blunt of it so. Think you who been here knows the feeling. I had come to grips with this and my path through 12 steps. So now i seem to have faced the fears again. I know not to regret the pass nor shut the door on it but guess sometimes we have to go back thru it. I have felt the guilt again and of course the anger and self justice cause i know some is not true but do and did not have the chance to state it cause it was in thearpy between my oldest and wife. Its ok now I know what i know all I can go on. Thouh thought about it of course did not pickup not a option today thank my god for that and you folks. I have to fight the expectation cause i cannot fix my wife or son so they are in Gods hands not my job right! lol love you all
Healthy and realistic expectations are very important to allow Gods work in, Demands will keep God out! If we don’t have some healthy vulnerable situations in life we will not learn from them , good or bad. Willingness, honesty and open mindness are the foundation of our recovery.
Peter