I was sharing with others today what it was that began to change me from dreary to peaceful and happy. And part of that was what my sponsor and others helped to push me into good places within. So, I felt that hopefully I could offer them the help I had been given.
One of those things was stopping my day, when I found myself in trouble within. I could be depressed, angry, upset, even resentful. I was told that if I was in a place, where there were people around me, I needed to step into another room, where there was no one. Perhaps a men’s room. If I could sit or kneel, I could begin by praying and asking for relief. Then I was to change my mind from deep negative emotions, and then begin to lighten my mind and my feelings. And then begin my day over again.
Possibly, looking back, I can remember being told that one of the biggest helps in such changes would come from attitudes. Going from a negative attitude and entering a positive attitude. Attitudes we were told would change everything. If I had a positive attitude it would make a pleasant day for me. On the other hand a negative attitude could darken even a sunny day and make it totally unpleasant. And taking that thought about attitudes and doing what I was told to change my day and start it over, this is what I could do. Change my attitude.
I had to learn to understand that my feelings were what could make my day a good one or a bad one. And I had to learn to stop and ask for help and begin to change. I learned that everyday could be a good one, if that’s what I wanted. I had to learn not to give into “feelings”. That’s something I had to learn from those old timers in here. I was told that I had to have a positive attitude and begin to think rather than let my feelings run my life. Like my sponsor and others told me it was mind over matter.
Of course I always begin my day aware of these things. I know I’m here to stay sober this day. And I can get help to continue to live a sober life. If I’m confused and mixed up, I can talk to other alcoholics whom I know can help me. Beginning with my sponsor. Going to meetings and sitting and paying attention and listening. Taking time to step aside and read the literature. And, of course, praying and meditating. Trying to live a spiritual way of life.
Finally to have a positive attitude and being grateful for what I have been given in here. I need to remember to say “Thank you” to my Higher Power, and all those who have helped me along the way.