Reactions and the Next Right Thing
Lately, I’ve been focusing on reactions to life, living life on life’s terms, and doing the next right thing.
Some people call this working the Four Absolutes. But those people live in Cleveland.
The Four Absolutes are:
Honesty: Is it true or false?
Unselfishness: How will it affect the other fellow?
Love: Is it ugly or beautiful?
Purity: Is it right or wrong?
Others call it working the 10th Step (watching out for selfishness, dishonesty, resentment, and fear; and take them to God at once, discuss them with another person, make amends if needed, and help another alcoholic).
I like the term “doing the next right thing,” because understanding and doing the will of God has always been a bit elusive to me. And it’s true that we tend to grow and change most when we are FORCED to grow and change. I know this was true when I sobered up. I really thought this was my last attempt and if I couldn’t stay sober, I would just end it all, either through suicide or by becoming resigned to the fact that I would kill myself through drinking.
Today, thank God my learning curve is a little better. But there are still things in my life that will only change when I’m desperate enough. Like exercise. I bought my bike and started walking or riding, only because my car needs a new engine.
But through the last week, I’ve also been able to take time and contemplate if/how I’ve reacted to my car situation differently than when I was still drinking. I’m happy to report that, for this one instance, God has given me the serenity to accept what I cannot change (my engine is broke and I am not a mechanic), the courage to change the things I can (look into options for repairs or new car) and the wisdom to know the difference (I probably shouldn’t try to fix my car on my own, etc…)
Normally, I really freak out with car problems, but not this time. I’m currently enjoying my walking and biking time, and in a couple of weeks, I will have a used car, which I will have paid for with cash, instead of running to the nearest “Bad Credit is OK!” place to buy an overly priced, piece of junk car.
I haven’t made as many meetings as I would like during this walking/biking period. But I’m still able to get to my home group, and meet with my sponsee, so all is not lost. While I’m looking forward to getting my new car, this period of time has been worthwhile.