September 4

In recovery, we often say, “Your bottom is where you stop digging.” Where and when you put down the shovel is up to you, entirely. When in a hole, we suggest not making matters worse by continuing to dig. The addict or alcoholic will often think, “If I have gone this far, I might as well see what else is down here and how far it goes!” The truth is there is nothing but a deeper hole. As Bill Wilson discusses in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, “Quicksand stretched around me in all directions. I had met my match. I had been overwhelmed. Alcohol was my master.” Bill knew that the more he tried to squirm, the more he would have made it worse and sunk ever deeper. What is needed is to let go and surrender. To give up and give in entirely to the understanding that we have shoveled our last clump of dirt and reached the end of a long and hard-fought battle. We can understand this intellectually, but its acceptance is ultimately exemplified by our actions.

Reflections

Have I accepted that I am an addict/alcoholic? If so, what actions have I taken or am I taking that prove it?

Daily Challenge

The next meeting you’re in, be the first one to share when the meeting is officially open. Grow a pair!