On we go to the next in my series. Sound principles to live by. At this point, I’ll recap from where I’ve delved in this honorable endeavor. Surrender, Honesty, Hope- Great, so Now What? , Faith, Courage, Integrity- How does that lead to Integrity? , Willingness , Humility- Right Sized , Brotherly Love- Love , Justice and now Perseverance. This is the result of working Step 10 Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.
At this point, my first time through, it was very important to consciously take time at the end of my day to consider interactions with others and in situations. I had plenty of help from my sponsor and people I admire if I had questions. If I have to ask, then there certainly was something to set straight. Again there are no more I’m sorries. I faced up and admitted what the infraction was and offer to make it right.
There is great power in admission. Or I should say I keep my power when I admit. I am reminded of what I like to refer to the Hippopotamus syndrome. If someone says something untrue about me like You’re a hippopotamus, I’ likely to laugh, but if something true is stated about me and I thought I was being sly and keeping it to myself. I will get angry and defensive. I will argue and give up my power in what ensues. So I tend to just admit it even if it is not true. I can never comprehend other’s perception. I try to understand what they see and say it.
“We are not cured of alcoholism. What we really have is a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition.” Alcoholics Anonymous. Doing this ongoing check is part of how I stay spiritually fit. There is much more to that in the next installment.
Today, after 18 plus years I am much more sensitive and am quick to feel it when I wronged someone and done something I shouldn’t. I consider it miraculous.
WTFAI 
Totally off the point, but I might just have persuaded the wife to let me turn the front lawn into a wildflower meadow (ok, maybe patch would be a better word). 🙂
Back on the point – love that ‘Hippopotamus Syndrome’! 🙂
Kindness – Robert.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My Uncle was estranged from our family most of the 70s, 80s, and the last part of the 90s came back to our family after having rock n rolled himself around the world. He joined NA and sent everyone a video. All his brothers and sisters were finished with him so my Pa gave the video to me. My heart broke for my Uncke who just wanted another chance. I called him up we talked for 3 hrs. He started our saying so what happened in the 80s to your mom and Pa. that was in 1999, and I can say he’s my best friend and I’m his. I love that connection we have. I love your posts because they bring back sweet memories of healing. We all need healing. So thankful you are here! Have a blessed day 💛🌼🙏🏼
LikeLiked by 1 person
There’s so much here. The power of God is breathtaking. Thank you 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Generational healing is a powerful truth. I’m willing to hold space for that. The power of God is so very breathtaking. I believe 🙏🏼😌
LikeLiked by 1 person
Impressive 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you 🙏🏼
LikeLiked by 1 person