Discussion and Sharing Welcomed!

[Grizzled]

As I'm sure many of you have heard in meetings (I know I have) we alcoholics have gotten ourselves into our predicaments because, for some strange reason, we think we are in some semblance of control in our addiction. Thinking back on the logistcs of my 'supply management' I feel I'm qualified to be the executive in charge of supply chain management of Wall-Mart.

I still find it hard to reconcile all the 'responsibilities', mistaken cares, and phantom crises I had to manage to protect my present and future assurance that I would always be able to have a drink (or twelve) when I wanted and where I wanted.

What a joke.

My best thinking made me sick and insane. It was a very pleasant minor (perhaps major) miracle to tackle this step and see the anxiety and fears slowly disappear. As previously stated, it is a DECISION to rid ourselves of unfounded and imagined notions of reality. But I have to live this step every day and reaffirm my faith in God and know that His will will be done and mine is inconsequential.

I have gained a feeling of quiet relief in knowing I am just a cog in the larger machinery of humanity. It takes the pressure off. It is the will of God.

[sugErspun]

Step Three happened sometime before I actually got on my knees with my sponsor and said the prayer together. We had read the book together up to where the paragraph breaks before the prayer as written on pg63, and ended the session. He was subtely giving me time to think about what we had covered...one week passed during which I re-read up to that point (I never read past where I have gone with my sponsor any more - I thought at one time I know what the book is about and would read ahead). Mostly I thought, and got quiet.

During all the reading and talking (a little bit of writing, but not much) I was thirsty for more..I wanted to move on.

I 'felt' ready to take the step, there was no reservation whatsoever. I would have 'formally' said the step that night if he would have let me, but that was not the case.

We said the prayer, in and of itself there wasn't much.

When I got home that night after the meeting, I picked up a pen and started making a list of names.........

[TTOSBT]

I just took Step 3 with my sponsor yesterday. She kept me on this step for quite a while and i am okay with that. She wanted me to do the most solid Step 3 that I could so that I have a rock solid foundation upon which to build. I feel good this morning. I feel hopeful and lighter.
I believe that I am ready to move on to Step 4.

[terrapin]

I like Father Martin,s interpretation. That's cool and your post has helped me alot. Thanks!

[PaperDolls]

My sponsor suggested I rewrite the 3rd step prayer if I wanted. Here's what I came up with.

God, I offer myself to you
Please guide me
and direct me.
Take away my old
ways and my ideas,
my ego and my pride.
Free me of my
worries and fears.
Help me to open
myself to your love.
Guide me in my
recovery and give me
strength to follow
through.