Renewal of the Mind-Daily Readings

[If Not For Grace]

You Are Reading From

~ AS BILL SEES IT ~ (The A.A. Way of Life, Selected Writings of A.A.’s Co-founder) ~

~ Page 311 ~

Telling the Worst

Though the variations were many, my main theme was always "How god-awful I am!" Just as I often exaggerated my modest attainments by pride, so I exaggerated my defects through guilt. I would race about, confessing all (and a great deal more) to whoever would listen. Believe it or not, I took this widespread exposure of my sins to be great humility on my part, and considered it a great spiritual asset and consolation!

But later on I realized at depth that the great harms I had done others were not truly regretted. These episodes were merely the basis for storytelling and exhibitionism. With this realization came the beginning of a certain amount of humility.

~ GRAPEVINE, JUNE 1961 ~

© 1967 by Alcoholics Anonymous ® World Services, Inc

 

[If Not For Grace]

You are Reading From November 6th
~ EACH DAY A NEW BEGINNING ~ (Daily Meditations For Women) ~

Of course fortune has its part in human affairs, but conduct is really much more important. ~ Jeanne Detourbey ~

Behaving the way we honestly and sincerely believe God wants us to behave eliminates our confusion. When we contribute in a loving manner to the circumstances involving us, we carry God's message; and that's all that's expected of us in this life.

This recovery program has involved us in the affairs of many other people. We are needed to listen, to guide, to sponsor, to suggest. Each time we have an opportunity to make an impact on another person, it's to our benefit, and hers too, to let God direct our conduct.

Too often God's message is missed due to our selfish concerns, but it's never too late to begin listening for it. God is forever at hand, awaiting our recognition. We can be mindful that the ease of our lives is directly proportional to the recognition we offer.

Right conduct is never a mystery to us. We may not always choose to do it, but we never fail to know what should be done.

I will trust my conscience to be my guide every moment.

© 1982, 1991 by Hazelden Foundation