Secrets of a Serenity Seeker

[Midas]

My life, prior to beginning my journey of recovery, was in constant turmoil. I used every opportunity as an excuse to drink, drug, isolate, and run away. It was total chaos. And the sick thing about it, is that I thrived on the chaos.

So what's it like being restored to sanity? I didn't think the steps applied to me, because I was hopeless. That's where I was wrong--dead wrong. There's a solution to the madness. It's an algorithm of sorts.

Step One: is a step of Faith -- It's a leap of faith into the realm of the unknown
Step Two: is a step of HOPE -- we came...we came to...we came to believe...
Step Three: is a step of Love -- By turning my will over, I'm empowering God's Will to operate in my life. ............................................ We enter into His Grace, and the love of the fellowship.

So what does this have to do with Seeking Serenity? It all adds up. But here's the catch: My expectations must be kept extremely realistic. Otherwise, my serenity will take a nose dive into neverneverland. As long as I keep my expectations reasonable, my serenity increases.

I hope this bit of insight will help others in their journey.

*hugs*

~Barry

[Midas]

An Exercise in Humility:

Read pages 417-420 in the 4th edition Big Book. As you read it OUT LOUD, replace Max's name with your significant other's name. Make sure you have kleenex nearby. It was amazing when I read it like this. Awesome. Some of it may or may not apply directly in your life, but it may give you a whole new perspective.

Oh, here's a handy online version:
http://www.aa.org/bigbookonline/en_theystoppedintime16.pdf

You'll need Adobe Reader installed to read it.

[Midas]

Well...things certainly are getting interesting for me. I have a new apartment, a new job, and a NEW girlfriend! I couldn't have asked for anything more. More money maybe!! I shouldn't push my luck. :smile:

The stress of a new relationship can nearly always challenge my serenity. This time, however, seems to be different for some reason. *scratches head quizzically*

God has a sense of humor too. A couple of small details occurred to me, and they just made me smile.