Good News and Minor Miracles
The most amazing thing happened to me when I read a negative book review of one of my books on Amazon. I did not mind. This is truly evidence that miracles happen! After the review was pointed out to me I made note of my reaction during my daily inventory. Of course, no one EVER said, “Gee, I hope I get a negative book review today!” But I inventoried myself. I listened. I looked deep into my soul and what did I see? Gratitude.
Even as he was telling me about the review, I was swept up by the moment, not the negative message. My friend was upset by the review. I believe he said something like, “It hurts my heart.” Nothing is more precious to me than having a friend whose heart is willing to hurt on my behalf. Never ever in a million years will I begrudge the reviewer’s opinion for it gave me the opportunity to feel the kindness of a dear friend.
This is the gift of recovery made possible through working all 12 of the steps, not just the ones I prefer to attend to. Step Ten (daily inventories with necessary follow up repairs) reordered my life and my mind and even my heart. I cannot explain it but over time I have become less invested in the opinion of others and more committed to developing my own character. The process has certainly supported behavioral changes in me but even better - it has drained my energy for being overly concerned about the behavior of others. Sometimes I am a bit kinder, less impatient, and a titch more helpful because I know that later on I will stare all my deeds down during my daily inventory.
But it is this next step - Step Eleven: We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, as we understood him - that has brought springs of living water to my thirsty soul. It offers freedom and a promise and a practice that cannot be described - only experienced.
In Step Eleven we practice prayer and meditation for ONLY two reasons: to improve our conscious contact with God AND for the knowledge and strength to carry out his will for my life.
Clear. Simple. Direct. Life-altering. And we are going to talk about it for awhile. Stay tuned.
