Originally Posted by
hokey 
I understand exactly what you mean about getting hung about some of the concepts ... I struggle with a lot of them as well, and I tripped over some of those steps in the past. I'm only on day 14, so I haven't honestly given much thought to how I will deal with all that this time, but I know that my mentality is different this time around, and maybe when I get to working through the steps, that part of it may be different this time too. Not sure as I am not quite there yet. As an agnostic, I know I struggle with the higher power issue ... right now my higher power is SR
. And the moral inventory scares me ... I'm not sure I'm ready to turn a microscope onto my life, especially this early in recovery. I guess I'll find out as I go along, but I know that THIS time, those things will NOT be my excuse to drink. I will take what I need, what I want ... and leave the rest.
Hokey, I love what you said about taking what you need, want, and leaving the rest. I take from a few different resources. Have you checked into WFS (Women For Sobriety)? They also have a list (13 affirmations) to read to yourself everyday and focus on one at a time. Their list fits in a little better with my beliefs as an agnostic as well.
I need all the help I can get:
WFS “New Life” Acceptance Program
1. I have a life-threatening problem that once had me.
2. I now take charge of my life and my disease. I accept the responsibility.
3. Negative thoughts destroy only myself.
4. My first conscious sober act must be to remove negativity from my life.
5. Happiness is a habit I will develop.
6. Happiness is created, not waited for.
7. Problems bother me only to the degree I permit them to.
8. I now better understand my problems and do not permit problems to overwhelm me.
9. I am what I think.
I am a capable, competent, caring, compassionate woman.
10. Life can be ordinary or it can be great.
11. Greatness is mine by a conscious effort.
12. Love can change the course of my world.
13. Caring becomes all important.
(From WFS
The fundamental object of life is emotional and spiritual growth.
Daily I put my life into a proper order, knowing which are the priorities.
The past is gone forever.
No longer will I be victimized by the past. I am a new person.
All love given returns.
I will learn to know that others love me.
Enthusiasm is my daily exercise.
I treasure all moments of my new life
I am a competent woman and have much to give life.
This is what I am and I shall know it always.
I am responsible for myself and for my actions.
I am in charge of my mind, my thoughts, and my life.
To make the Program effective for you, arise each morning fifteen minutes earlier than usual and go over the Thirteen Affirmations. Then begin to think about each one by itself. Take one Statement and use it consciously all day. At the end of the day review the use of it and what effects it had that day for you and your actions.
(c) 1976, 1987, 1993, 2011