There are days when I feel like quitting. It is always at the worst time too, just after I have made a plan to get better for myself and my kids.
A few weeks ago, after making a promise to stop drinking for good-I had one drink with dinner and it lead to another, then another….
Now that I am sober again, I know that this is not what living life means. It means being completely aware of my surroundings and knowing how they make me feel. Today was a great day!
Sometimes all you need is an encouraging word from someone who understands what you are going through. You can be free from addiction if you want to be.”
Daily Reflections November 3
There is a direct linkage among self-examination, meditation, and prayer. Taken separately, these practices can bring much relief and benefit.
TWELVE STEPS AND TWELVE TRADITIONS, p. 98
The three things you should do before going to bed are self-examination, meditation, and prayer.
They form a circle without having a beginning or end because no matter where in this process someone starts there will always be some form of mindfulness that must first take place; it’s impossible not to give attention when we’re being called out by our Creator.
Jesus instructed us to examine ourselves first, then pray and meditate. However, there is no set way that we must do this.
Some of us may want to start with prayer because it’s a more natural step for them; others may prefer starting by examining themselves before praying or meditating.
But no matter where you begin on your journey towards holiness—in the examination room of self-knowledge or in the quiet place of meditation—you’ll need both prayer and contemplation as you move forward if you’re going to find peace and happiness along the path.
So what are some ways that you’ve found helpful when considering these three steps? Let me know!