Acceptance

The importance of acceptance was a theme that kept coming up today.  I had not thought of it before, but acceptance is very important as the basis for a loving approach to life, an attitude or approach that increases the integrity of the universe.  I need to accept other people if I am to listen thoroughly and then begin to work with them.  I also need to accept myself and my current circumstances if I am to deal with my life.

Love Of God

I feel a strong love for other people, regardless of their situations, beliefs or what they think of me.  The source of that love is the force or power that I call God.  Part of that love is being with them and emotionally supporting them while they experience unpleasant things, similar to the way I have gone through the many unpleasant experiences in my own life, things like disability, physical pain or just life circumstances.  As Bach says “They are the stones on which you choose to whet the keen edge of your spirit.  Know that ever about you stands the reality of love, and each moment you have the power to transform your world by what you have learned.”

Staying Present

I had numerous interactions of various types today, which, overall, left me feeling lost and confused.  I stayed present and moved from one situation to the next well, but since they were all very different, when reflecting on the sequence I found it confusing.  For example, I was of service to two people, offering suggestions and advice, which will, possibly, go unheeded.  I also was worked on by the medical intuitive healer I go to and had some interaction with my wife.  I talked about the extreme nature of the book I am writing, the fact that it will probably not be a money maker and the likely difficulty I will have getting it published.  Toward the end of the day, I talked extensively about my past experiences and the current difficulties and limitations due to my disability.  All in all, the day was a good example of staying present and going with the flow of life.

Love In Action

The topic in my recovery meeting today was “fellowship” and, during the meeting, I began reflecting on how much help I have received from others in recovery and from non-physical helpers, like God.  All in all, it has been quite a journey, involving many.  In my case, the help began with the numerous people who gave me guidance during the initial part of my recovery journey, guidance that continues today.  After the meeting I was approached by, and provided suggestions and guidance to two people.  First receiving then giving and receiving, two fine examples of love in action.

Passing It On

The highlight for me today was connecting 1-1 with another recovering person, in order for him to grow and change spiritually and emotionally.  He realized that certain beliefs and behaviors that he was conscious of were holding him back from feeling at peace with himself and his life.  He also realized that he had other unconscious beliefs and behaviors that were doing the same thing.  I could certainly identify with both.  Not that many years ago, very similarly, I knew there were problems with my life, but I had no clue how to do things differently.  I needed some guidance.  It is now wonderful to pass it on.

Changes

Maria and I went out to Wupatki today.  When there, we did a pipe and smudging ceremony.  It sounds silly, but my sense was that the pipe wanted to go with us.  Once there, the spirits & land felt very supportive, affirming and powerful.  Earlier in the day we attended a Friends (Quaker) meeting and the feeling was one of positive changes taking place, changes toward love, peace and compassion.  One of my friends just had a talk during which she referred to such a change going on.  I have an emotional attachment to those ideas so I am cautious, but it seems that what Maria and I do, is part of that shift.

Our Shadow Side

Today, I led two groups for the newly recovering addicts I work with, lots of good connection and love, very enjoyable.  As always, I kept in mind that my role was to serve them and asked for guidance and support before each of the groups. We talked about the dark or shadow side in each one of us, a subject I enjoy since it is so seldom talked about.  By definition it is that part of each of us which is often negative and we don’t like to admit to, let alone talk about it.  In myself, I have learned to acknowledge it, love it as part of me, talk freely about it and not act on it.