ODAATW | One Day At A Time World
One Day At A Time World | Worldwide A.A. Resource
unsplash-image--5nwt_aN2E0.jpg

A.A. Daily Reflection

Wise Words

A.A. Daily Reflection • January 3

 

Photo: Elijah Hail

January 3

POWERLESS

We admitted we were powerless over alcohol — that our lives had become unmanageable.

— TWELVE STEPS AND TWELVE TRADITIONS, p. 21

It is no coincidence that the very first Step mentions powerlessness: An admission of personal powerlessness over alcohol is a cornerstone of the foundation of recovery. I've learned that I do not have the power and control I once thought I had. I am powerless over what people think about me. I am powerless over having just missed the bus. I am powerless over how other people work (or don't work) the Steps. But I've also learned I am not powerless over some things. I am not powerless over my attitudes. I am not powerless over negativity. I am not powerless over assuming responsibility for my own recovery. I have the power to exert a positive influence on myself, my loved ones, and the world in which I live.

 

From the book Daily Reflections | Copyright © 1990 by Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.

 
Daily ReflectionAlcoholics AnonymousDaily Reflection, Step 1, 12 & 12, powerlessness, unmanageable, unmanageability, admission, alcohol, foundation, recovery, power, control, negativity, responsibility, influence, positive