December 14 - Step Work When Nobody’s Around
Every so often, I get taken hostage by myself. One expectation slips in, turns into a resentment, and suddenly my whole world feels upside down. I’m trapped in the bondage of self again, replaying the same thoughts like they’re important.
The Big Book says to find an alcoholic to work with and get out of myself. That works. But sometimes it’s just not possible. I’m driving. I’m at work. I’m alone with my head, and that’s a dangerous neighborhood.
That’s when I use something an old sponsor taught me. When I can’t reach another alcoholic, I can still get out of myself by praying for other people — especially the ones I’m irritated with. She showed me how to take the Third Step Prayer and put someone else’s name in it, offering them to God instead of trying to manage them.
God, I offer [their name] to Thee — to build with them and to do with them as Thou wilt. Relieve them of the bondage of self, that they may better do Thy will. Take away their difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness to those they would help of Thy Power, Thy Love, and Thy Way of life. May they do Thy will always.
I don’t magically feel better, but something loosens. The resentment loses some power. I step out of the center for a minute, and that’s usually enough.
Thank God for the people in AA.
What’s something you do to get out of your head when you can’t reach another alcoholic?
