The world is an unforgiving place. The stakes are high, and it’s hard to know what will happen next. You’ve lost every job you ever had because of your drinking, but you still drink until you can’t remember how long it has been since your last hit.
Today is October 30th, which means that tomorrow is Halloween. It also means that in a week and a half we’ll be heading into November and the coldest time of the year. If only there was some way for me to keep warm while I wait out winter…
Daily Reflections October 30
Never since it began has Alcoholics Anonymous been divided by a major controversial issue. Nor has our Fellowship ever publicly taken sides on any question in an embattled world. This, however, has been no earned virtue. It could almost be said that we were born with it. . . . “So long as we don’t argue these matters privately, it’s a cinch we never shall publicly.”
TWELVE STEPS AND TWELVE TRADITIONS, p. 176
When I’m told that my opinions are wrong, and others should share theirs with me rather than have the freedom to be themselves–is this what you’re talking about?
When religious followers start judging other people because of their beliefs or lack thereof is something else entirely.
No one has a say-so in who decides if someone else’s opinion can or cannot change; it is up for each individual person themself decide whether they will accept those things which remain constant no matter how hard we try (like family) as well as learn when our attempts at changing reality aren’t going so far enough.
“Live and let live” is a great mantra to keep in mind when you get into debates with people.
You have your opinions, they have theirs. If you can remember that yours are just as valid as someone else’s, it will be easier for you to accept them without trying to change their minds or being afraid of expressing yourself in the future.
I’m not saying there isn’t room for growth in any person’s life–there always is!–but if we’re all striving toward our own personal best selves then disagreement won’t feel so bad anymore!
What do you think? Let me know what strategies work for you about how to “live and let live”