MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'humility'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:11:38 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5057927&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fyou-cant-help-laughing%2F Isn’t it funny … When the other fellow takes a long time to do something, he is slow; but when I take a long time doing something, I am thorough. When the other fellow does not do it, he is lazy; but when I don’t do it, I am too busy When the other fellow goes ahead and does something without being told, he is overstepping his bounds; but when I go ahead and do something without being told, that is initiative. When the other fellow states his side of the question strongly, he is bull-headed; but when I state a side of a question strongly, I am being firm. When the other fellow overlooks a few of the rules of good manners, he is rude; but when I skip a few of the rules, I am original. When the other fellow does some thing that pleases the boss, that is crawling; but when I do some... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5057927 Sat, 23 Jul 2011 17:31:17 +0100 5057927 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036510&cid=t_143241_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fin-gods-house.html Historic home in ChippewaIn God's house, I am loved for my weakness;In God's house, humility my only repose;In God's house, the halls are filled with singing,and the streets are paved with gold.In God's house, my burdens are lifted;my sins burned forever away;and the peace of Christ brings rest to my soul -How to live like that today?Before He calls me home to a mansion,Before He seals my wounds with His kiss,I want to live even though I'm broken,for I know the peace that alone is His.Through grayest moods and loudest weepingHe speaks from His house how He loves,and my fear slowly ebbs and my cry gives wayto the praise He compels there above.~God's House, Genevieve Thul~ (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036510 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 13:29:00 +0100 5036510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893924&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdaily-moral-inventory%2F Twelve Step Fellowships suggest we ‘continue to take personal inventory’ as part of the program of continuing recovery.One way that many use is when we retire at night, we constructively review our day.Were we resentful, selfish, dishonest, or afraid?Tick Boxes daily. There might be one tick per line or there might be a tick in both sides or none Characteristics of Self Will     Characteristics of Higher Power’s Will Selfish & Self-Seeking  Interest In OthersDishonesty  HonestyFrightened  CourageInconsideration  ConsiderationPride  Humility – Seeking God’s WillGreed  Giving Or SharingLust  What We Can Do For OthersAnger  CalmnessEnvy  GratitudeSloth&#... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893924 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 15:29:00 +0100 4893924 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4552072&cid=t_143241_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2F05%2F7-reasons-charlie-sheen-may-hate-alcoholics-anonymous%2F In one of the myriad interviews he gave over the last week, Charlie Sheen said clearly that he hates AA. A lot of people have trouble with Alcoholics Anonymous. AA is full of people and people can be messy and flawed. The human train wreck formally known as Charlie Sheen is a common sight in the AA meeting halls. The only difference between Mr. Sheen and other self-absorbed, delusional, frantic addicts is the size of the audience to which they rant. These people do not last long in AA. They mock the Fellowship and the 12 Steps (PDF) as too religious or simplistic. AA is beneath them. Here are a few possible reasons why Charlie Sheen might hate AA so much. Reasons Why Charlie Sheen May Hate AA He would have to admit he is powerless. He would need to embrace Humility. Deep tissue Change wo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4552072 Sat, 05 Mar 2011 16:13:27 +0100 4552072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4525168&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Flifes-lessons%2F To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me.My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the list once more:1. Life isn’t fair, but it’s still good.2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.4. Your job won’t take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.5. Pay off your credit cards every month.6. You don’t have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.7. Cry with someone. It’s more healing than crying alone.8. It’s OK to get angry with God. He can take it.9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.11. Make peace with your past so it won’t screw up the present.1... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4525168 Sat, 26 Feb 2011 16:45:00 +0100 4525168 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4522145&cid=t_143241_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F02%2F25%2Fhow-abraham-lincoln-used-faith-to-overcome-depression%2F Abraham Lincoln is a powerful mental health hero for me. Whenever I doubt that I can do anything meaningful in this life with a defective brain (and entire nervous system, actually, as well as the hormonal one), I simply pull out Joshua Wolf Shenk’s classic, “Lincoln’s Melancholy: How Depression Challenged a President and Fueled His Greatness.” Or I read the CliffsNotes version: the poignant essay, “Lincoln’s Great Depression” that appeared in The Atlantic in October of 2005. Every time I pick up pages from either the article or the book, I come away with new insights. This time I was intrigued by Lincoln’s faith — and how he read the Book of Job when he needed redirection. I’ve excerpted the paragraphs below from the article on ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4522145 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 20:09:22 +0100 4522145 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349703&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fhumility-and-surrender%2F Conclusions. The present results suggest that, relative to their more humble counterparts, recovering alcoholics who lack humility (ie., high narcissists) do not have more difficulty surrendering to the idea they are powerless over their drinking problem.However, recovering alcoholics who lack authority-related humility do show a marked lack of faith in the proposition that God offers a viable solution to their alcohol problem.Consequently, they are quite reluctant to surrender their willfulness, and thereby accept help from a Higher Power.Given that faith in the existence, availability or efficacy of a Higher Power is difficult for this subsample of individuals, it seems likely that – in the context of 12-step recovery – deficits in humility may serve to increase a clients vul... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349703 Fri, 14 Jan 2011 15:44:00 +0100 4349703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4300718&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-co-dependency-is-not%2F Sometimes people mistake the milk of human kindness for co-dependency. Thus, when co-dependent women start to recover, the pendulum swings the other way and they become determined not to "caretake" or to give away too much. They don’t want to offer care unless someone asks. This is fine, and for some a necessary part of the recovery, but some distinctions are in order.Empathy, sensitivity, care, compassion, and tenderness are wonderful traits. Being deeply involved and nurturing in a relationship can reflect a person’s wonderful capacity for intimacy. The ability to protect and care for children is a skill to be highly valued. When you comfort someone in need, you bestow a precious gift. Tuning in to the needs of others is beautiful. The codependent woman does not need to get... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4300718 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 15:45:01 +0100 4300718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4119585&cid=t_143241_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F10%2Fhearing-wild-heartbeat-in-storm.html I didn't have enough handsto hold the pieces of my brokennessDidn't have enough tearsto dry out my heartBut on the other side of the stormwhere the sunshine is wonderful warmthI've much to liveand more to giveand laughter comes so easy~Other Side of the Cloud, Sarabeth Geoghegan~A half hour east of Chicago, my eyes were a sand-filled abyss of fatigue and my knuckles ached from clutching the steering wheel, as if I could haul myself out of the drag of slumber if only I pulled hard enough on the faux leather grain of the wheel.The clouds stacked up for miles, tens of thousands of feet of mist piled in mounding thunderheads all around the city.  At 4 p.m., the last straggling suburbanites filed out of downtown with lights glowing in the gloom of the gathering storm.  A few fingers o... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4119585 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 21:51:00 +0100 4119585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106073&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fr3zaoopVbVg%2F Members of 12 Step Fellowships in recovery often catch themselves asking ‘why?.’ We are usually encouraged to talk to our sponsor, go to meetings; let go, let God. Good and most often successful solutions. But we are also usually encouraged to get active. These eight questions are complimentary to the 12 Step program. —— I am writing this with a broken neck… One minute I was playing footy, the next I was stretched out on a hospital bed with my neck in a brace which I will be wearing for the next 6-12 weeks. When faced with a crisis, our natural response is to ask "Why?" Why did this happen now? Why did this happen to me? But "Why?" may not be the most helpful question to ask. Sure, sometimes we need to understand the cause of the problem – p... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106073 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:09:27 +0100 4106073 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4025652&cid=t_143241_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2F02%2Fgetting-sober-hope-in-the-rooms-and-online%2F Recovering alcoholics say there is magic to be found in the rooms of their support groups. I have experienced and benefited from that, but, like others can’t name the exact ingredient of the meetings that has healing faculties. Tara Handron, a playwright and actress, does as good of a job as anyone I’ve known, at uncovering why and how recovering alcoholics are able to stay sober when they spill their guts between four walls. The other night I attended her one-person performance, a 60-minute play, that discards clichéd portrayals of recovery and relies on complex characters and richly layered stories to expose the raw emotions so many alcoholic women experience. Tara’s back-to-back portrayals of over 20 female alcoholics of various ages, ethnicities, and socio-economic ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4025652 Sat, 02 Oct 2010 11:47:41 +0100 4025652 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3913269&cid=t_143241_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fjoy-comes.html Lamentations 3 - God poured on the trouble and hard times. BUT, there's one other thing I am remembering that gives me a grip on hope: God's loyal love couldn't have run out, His merciful love couldn't have dried up. They're created new every morning. How great your faithfulness! I'm sticking with God (I say it over and over). He's all I've got left.  God proves to be good to the man who passionately waits, to the woman who diligently seeks. It's a good thing to quietly hope, quietly hope for help from God. It's a good thing when you're young to stick it out through the hard times. When life is heavy and hard to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence. Bow in prayer. Don't ask questions: Wait for hope to appear. Don't run from trouble. Take it full-face. The "worst" is never the w... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3913269 Sun, 29 Aug 2010 02:58:00 +0100 3913269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3889277&cid=t_143241_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fcarpe-diem.html I suppose something titled "Carpe diem" is an inevitability on a cancer blog.  But the reality of this age-old truth hit me in a new way yesterday.  "Carpe diem" is a theme in Scripture, which can be found in II Chronicles 15:7, II Corinthians 5, and, more laconically, in Ecclesiastes 9:10.  Yesterday, I traveled back to the hustle and bustle of the only city I've ever called home, Minneapolis.  It's no big secret that I am a country girl, although I was born near the heart of downtown Minneapolis.  My earliest memories are from my parents hobby farm in rural central Minnesota, and I remember the confines of Grand Forks seemed stifling during my childhood. After graduating from college, I found a great job at a great university hospital in Minneapolis, moved a... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3889277 Fri, 20 Aug 2010 20:39:00 +0100 3889277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3802556&cid=t_143241_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fheld.html A newborn baby is a good example to me, a struggling adult.  My little nephew Robbie loves to be held.  He sleeps right through the sometimes rather jostling transitions from one set of arms to the next, puts up with the childlike mistakes as his little cousins pinch his cheeks, pull on his arms and legs, and kiss him roughly.He's okay with the fact that he has needs.  He doesn't even think about the possibility that someday he'll move beyond those needs...the needs he has for this family he's been planted in.  He just soaks it up.Maybe it's a little easier for him than me.  After all, he probably lacks any vision of independence, and certainly he doesn't have to wonder whether or not he should ask for help.  The cries come, instinctively, when he is hungry, c... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3802556 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 11:50:00 +0100 3802556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3787127&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-admit-it-paradox%2F Any attempt to deceive will ultimately end up wasting your precious time. Live the truth of who you are, and it will bring out the best you can be. Admit to being frightened, and your courage will grow. Admit to not knowing, and you will learn. Admit your weaknesses, and you’ll become stronger. Admit your mistakes, and you’ll begin to move past them. Admit you don’t know what to say, and you’ll have said just the right thing. Admit that you’re confused, and you’ll begin to understand. Admit that you’re hurting, and you’ll begin to heal. Admit that you care, and the things that truly matter will grow stronger. Being honest with yourself, with others and in life, can often be difficult and intimidating. Yet honesty is always the most reliable, the most direct route ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3787127 Sun, 25 Jul 2010 18:36:00 +0100 3787127 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3787131&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fhumbly-asked-him-to-remove-our-shortcomings-2%2F Step seven of the 12 Step recovery program. "Since this Step so specifically concerns itself with humility, we should pause here to consider what humility is and what the practice of it can mean to us. "Indeed, the attainment of greater humility is the foundation principle of each of A.A.’s Twelve Steps. For without some degree of humility, no alcoholic can stay sober at all. Nearly all A.A.’s have found, too, that unless they develop much more of this precious quality than may be required just for sobriety, they still haven’t much chance of becoming truly happy. Without it, they cannot live to much useful purpose, or, in adversity, be able to summon the faith that can meet any emergency." Alcoholics Anonymous book; Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, pg. 70 See al... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3787131 Sat, 24 Jul 2010 13:19:00 +0100 3787131 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3767319&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsuspicion-is-dark%2F Suspicion is like a pair of sunglasses – it makes all the world look dark. Comments and silent responses overheard at a recovery meeting. "Deb, let’s have lunch tomorrow." – Why would she want to have lunch with me? "Pam, I tried to phone you today." – No you didn’t, I was home almost all day. "Larry, you sure are a kick!" – What did he mean by that? When we suspect the motives of others, who have done nothing other than to make a friendly comment, we would do well to suspect that we are the one with the problem. When we recognize it’s our insecurity at play here, we can begin to override the negative self-talk with positive talk. At first we may have to force ourselves to reply, "Yes, I’d love to have... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3767319 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:18:10 +0100 3767319 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3662960&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholics-anonymous-is-a-haven-of-hope-and-peace-2%2F Twice-Gifted My physical being has certainly undergone a transformation, but the major transformation has been spiritual. The hopelessness has been replaced by abundant hope and sincere faith. The people of Alcoholics Anonymous have provided a haven where, if I remain aware and keep my mind quiet long enough, my Higher Power leads me to amazing realizations. I find joy in my daily life, in being of service, in simply being. I have found rooms full of wonderful people, and for me each and every one of the Big Book’s promises have come true. The things that I have learned from my own experience, from the Big Book, and from my friends in AA – patience, acceptance, honesty, humility, and true faith in a Power greater than myself – are the tools I use today to live my life, th... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3662960 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 04:24:27 +0100 3662960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3652469&cid=t_143241_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2F11%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-june-11-2010%2F There’s a side of us that we want to keep from the rest of the world. We put our best face forward while hiding the parts of ourselves we deem too unlovable to reveal to outsiders. Sometimes we do it out of fear of being rejected and other times we do it out of habit. For example, can you count the number of times today when someone asked how you were doing and you automatically answered “fine” even when you didn’t feel that way? Maybe it’s our society that values doing so or maybe we don’t believe that others can hold our own truth. We all have hidden our true selves at one time or another, yet I can’t help but wonder at what expense? Being honest about who we are and what situation we are in good or bad, may have a positive effect on others as we... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3652469 Fri, 11 Jun 2010 10:00:13 +0100 3652469 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629878&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fprinciples-of-the-12-steps%2F Recovery through the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous Sgt. Bill S., used a one word summary to describe the basic principle (as he saw it) behind each of the 12 Steps, when he was giving talks to military personnel about alcoholism at Lackland in San Antonio, Texas, during the 1950’s and later on in California. In the following, quoted from Sgt. Bill S., ‘On the Military Firing Line in the Alcoholism Treatment Program’, Chapter 18, “Recovery through the Twelve Steps” The twelve steps lead people through a necessary therapeutic sequence involving; insight, surrender, positive goals, introspection, confession, submission humility, amendment, restitution, reorganization, spirituality, and love The 12-Steps and principles are therefore; INSIGHT: We admitted we were pow... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629878 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 18:25:27 +0100 3629878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3612070&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FGBXnwUOHdfU%2F “The Power of Humility is a remarkable recovery book that presents profound tools for changing your life in simple, practical steps. . . . It will help us see the solutions that were there all the time, hidden from view by our own habits.” -Bruce Greyson, M.D., Professor of Psychiatry, University of Virginia School of Medicine Do you shy away from conflict? Do you tend to over- or under-react during disagreements? Is it difficult for you to rise above a painful problem in a relationship? If so, you’re not alone. We all experience conflict on a daily basis, whether it’s with another person like a co-worker or boss, or in a “triangle” with two other people such as in a family relationship. Dealing with strife isn’t easy because most of us don’t ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3612070 Thu, 27 May 2010 17:17:00 +0100 3612070 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3568087&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FXS5QIZAK3h4%2F Any person with true maturity has humility and wisdom and - Accepts criticism gratefully. Being honestly glad for an opportunity to improve Does not indulge in self-pity. Has begun to feel the laws of compensation operating in all life. Does not expect special consideration from anyone. Controls temper. Meets emergencies with poise. feelings are not easily hurt. Accepts the responsibility of own acts without trying to "alibi’. Has outgrown the ‘all or nothing’ stage. Recognizes that no person or situation is wholly good or wholly bad. And begins to appreciate the golden rule. Is not impatient at reasonable delays Have learned they are not the arbiter of the universe and that must often adjust to other people and their convenience Is a good loser can endure defeat and disappoint... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3568087 Sun, 16 May 2010 05:14:30 +0100 3568087 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3566813&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FvrQQNYaDMsU%2F Sometimes people mistake the milk of human kindness for co-dependency. Thus, when co-dependent women start to recover, the pendulum swings the other way and they become determined not to "caretake" or to give away too much. They don’t want to offer care unless someone asks. This is fine, and for some a necessary part of the recovery, but some distinctions are in order. Empathy, sensitivity, care, compassion, and tenderness are wonderful traits. Being deeply involved and nurturing in a relationship can reflect a person’s wonderful capacity for intimacy. The ability to protect and care for children is a skill to be highly valued. When you comfort someone in need, you bestow a precious gift. Tuning in to the needs of others is beautiful. The codependent woman does not need to ge... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3566813 Fri, 14 May 2010 19:57:24 +0100 3566813 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3560235&cid=t_143241_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2F10-reasons-to-be-a-doctor%2F2010.05.12 With all the negative press, the pay cuts, and the uncertainty of healthcare reform, I am approached by people who secretly whisper in my ear, “Would you have your child go into medicine?” On first blush I am tempted to answer, “Heck no!” given the administrative hassles, the changes in the public’s perception of our profession, the frontload of education, and the long hours involved. But those observations, while real, are superficial at best. Drilling down with more careful analysis after a challenging weekend on call, I find it worthwhile to stop and ask myself what makes medicine special for those of us crazy enough to subject ourselves to this lifestyle. I decided to put together a list of things that were important to me and would welcome additions from ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3560235 Wed, 12 May 2010 18:00:00 +0100 3560235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3552558&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FnrO49dFlhYc%2F   "It is a most wonderful blessing to be relieved of the terrible curse with which I was afflicted. My health is good and I have regained my self-respect and the respect of my colleagues. My home life is ideal and my business is as good as can be expected in these uncertain times." Dr Bob, cofounder of Alcoholics Anonymous From the book; Alcoholics Anonymous, pg. 180. Fourth Edition   Children of the Healer: The Story of Dr.Bob’s Kids by Bob Smith See also Dr Bob on Humility Recovery Promises to … Bill W.Biography Acceptance and Surrender Alcoholism is a Family Disease Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore Hazelden Books, DVD's & Medalions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3552558 Sun, 09 May 2010 17:38:10 +0100 3552558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3502989&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FGm0il1Jqc9k%2F Recovery, for me, was not just getting sober. Recovery also involved finding a new spiritual philosophy. I was often reminded of the slogan; ‘The man I was, was a drinker. The man I was would drink again.’ I had to change. And false humility was my primary character defect. I had shortcomings in the following areas of my attitudes. If one places ‘Principles Before Personalities’ and deals with ‘First Things First’, one approaches genuine humility, where there is enormous inner power. Actions to approach humility; Free yourself from the demands of your ego, and there is no limit to where you can go. Let go of your desire to control others, and you vastly improve the ability to control, focus and direct your own actions. Let go of the illusion that you already know it all, a... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3502989 Sat, 24 Apr 2010 11:48:14 +0100 3502989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3502990&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FbZ3ImcVe2Y4%2F Nine Words Towards Freedom and Sobriety My name is Keith, and I am an Alcoholic. Nine Words that allowed me to first find my place on the pathway to freedom – yes freedom. Free from the torments and frustrations that I had known as a practising alcoholic. Nine Words that were to give me hope, hope that I too, could live in peace and contentment’ as so many other Alcoholics Anonymous members were living, free from the use of alcohol. Nine Words -that today play such an important part in keeping me sober, for I know that as long as I can accept their meaning freely, free from any reservations or resentments, I can apply myself to the AA program and in so doing’ ensure my freedom from that first drink Nine Words that give me the freedom of choice for once I am free to choose what ty... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3502990 Sat, 24 Apr 2010 11:00:42 +0100 3502990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3454206&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F12-stupid-things-that-mess-up-recovery%2F An excellent recovery book to avoid diversions in recovery. Are you sabotaging your own recovery? To grow in recovery, we must grow up emotionally. This means getting honest with ourselves and facing up to the self-defeating thoughts and actions that put our sobriety at risk. Although there are as many ways to mess up recovery as there are alcoholics and addicts, some general themes exist, which include: • confusing self-concern with selfishness • not making amends • using the program to try to become perfect • not getting help for relationship troubles • believing that life should be easy In simple, down-to-earth language, Allen Berger explores the twelve most commonly confronted beliefs and attitudes that can sabotage recovery. He then provides tools for working through these ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3454206 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:14:00 +0100 3454206 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435256&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fanonymity-in-12-step-fellowships%2F Traditionally, 12 Step Fellowship members have always taken care to preserve their anonymity at the "public" level: press, radio, television, and films. In the early days of the original 12 Step Fellowship, Alcoholics Anonymous, when more stigma was attached to the term "alcoholic" than is the case today, this reluctance to be identified – and publicized – was easy to understand. As the Fellowship of A.A. grew, the positive values of anonymity soon became apparent. Public Anonymity First, we know from experience that many members might hesitate to turn to a 12 Step Fellowship for help if they thought their problem might be discussed publicly, even inadvertently, by others. Newcomers should be able to seek help with complete assurance that their identities wi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435256 Sat, 03 Apr 2010 14:15:00 +0100 3435256 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3433172&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhy-why-is-the-wrong-question%2F Members of 12 Step Fellowships in recovery often catch themselves asking ‘why?.’ We are usually encouraged to talk to our sponsor, go to meetings; let go, let God. Good and most often successful solutions. But we are also usually encouraged to get active. These eight questions are complimentary to the 12 Step program. —— I am writing this with a broken neck… One minute I was playing footy, the next I was stretched out on a hospital bed with my neck in a brace which I will be wearing for the next 6-12 weeks. When faced with a crisis, our natural response is to ask "Why?" Why did this happen now? Why did this happen to me? But "Why?" may not be the most helpful question to ask. Sure, sometimes we need to understand the cause of the problem – p... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3433172 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 14:41:00 +0100 3433172 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420764&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fbill-w-on-humility%2F I am currently reading Nell Wing’s book ‘Grateful to Have Been There; My 42 Years with Bill and Lois and the Evolution of Alcoholics Anonymous’. This is a revealing personality insight into Bill W. One passage that caught my attention is; “I’ve listened many time as Bill explained his own view of humility. According to him, we need to follow the Greek ‘middle way’ – to strike a balance. We should neither wear the Uriah Heep cloak of false humility, which Bill called ‘force-feeding of humble pie,’ nor stray the other way into pride of material achievements and admiration of one’s own importance. Bill’s definition of humility was willingness to seek God’s will in one’s life and then follow it. I’m reminded of a statement I once saw on the bulletin board of an al... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420764 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:22:00 +0100 3420764 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420540&cid=t_143241_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F29%2Fnarcissists-who-cry-the-other-side-of-the-ego%2F Have you ever noticed that when you have gotten very sick or hospitalized the person you thought was your friend never asked or called? When the same situation had previously happened to them, you were there for them. Many of you have been in a relationship or been a friend with someone who was an extreme narcissist. These types of relationships are filled with drama unless you totally please the narcissist, which is impossible. The typical extreme narcissists are full of themselves and are overtly pompous. I would like to focus on a kind of extreme narcissist that most people fail to recognize. First, let me explain what extreme narcissism is all about. Extreme narcissism is an egotistical preoccupation with self. It focuses on personal preferences, aspirations, needs, success, and how o... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420540 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 19:18:17 +0100 3420540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3387063&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F5eIRdwVMUoc%2F “Since this Step so specifically concerns itself with humility, we should pause here to consider what humility is and what the practice of it can mean to us. “Indeed, the attainment of greater humility is the foundation principle of each of A.A.’s Twelve Steps. For without some degree of humility, no alcoholic can stay sober at all. Nearly all A.A.’s have found, too, that unless they develop much more of this precious quality than may be required just for sobriety, they still haven’t much chance of becoming truly happy. Without it, they cannot live to much useful purpose, or, in adversity, be able to summon the faith that can meet any emergency.” © 1952, AAWS, Inc. Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, pg. 70 Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3387063 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 16:59:00 +0100 3387063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3223476&cid=t_143241_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fmy-mistake.html I re-read my Haiti post and went running for C.S. Lewis' Problem of Pain, a permanent fixture in my bedside book pile since cancer struck in mid 2008. I found the quote I was looking for, and feel humbly corrected. I love it when God whispers truth in your soul, and you are able to track down something that describes what was just an internal sense."Those who would like the God of scripture to be more purely ethical do not know what they ask." (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3223476 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:56:00 +0100 3223476 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3200666&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fd6oDZr3ZT2o%2F The Power of Humility Recovery, for me, was not just getting sober. Recovery also involved finding a new spiritual philosophy. I was often reminded of the slogan; ‘The man I was, was a drinker. The man I was would drink again.’ I had to change. And false humility was my primary character defect. I had shortcomings in the following areas of my attitudes. If one places ‘Principles Before Personalities’ and deals with ‘First Things First’, one approaches genuine humility, where there is enormous inner power. Actions to approach humility; Free yourself from the demands of your ego, and there is no limit to where you can go. Let go of your desire to control others, and you vastly improve the ability to control, focus and direct your own actions. Let go of the illusion that you alr... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3200666 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 00:21:37 +0100 3200666 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3176130&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FTf1Ojhr09Ac%2F Recovery through the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous Sgt. Bill S., used a one word summary to describe the basic principle (as he saw it) behind each of the 12 Steps, when he was giving talks to military personnel about alcoholism at Lackland in San Antonio, Texas, during the 1950’s and later on in California. In the [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3176130 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:11:00 +0100 3176130 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153646&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FgLjxNqqhWPs%2F On his desk Dr Bob (pictured at left), a cofounder of AA, had a plaque defining humility “‘As Dr. Bob said…:’” Humility is … ‘Perpetual quietness of heart. It is to have no trouble. It is never to be fretted or vexed, irritable or sore; to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153646 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 22:34:39 +0100 3153646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3139257&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholic-recovery-narcissism%2F Narcissism A Barrier to Personal Acceptance of the Spiritual Aspect of Alcoholics Anonymous Twenty-nine newly recovering alcoholic outpatients drawn from a Minnesota-Model type treatment program in the United Kingdom completed the NPI narcissism scale and the “Steps Questionnaire.” Results showed the narcissistic “authority” subscale showed a very strong inverse relationship to level of personal acceptance of [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3139257 Sun, 03 Jan 2010 15:59:44 +0100 3139257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2842809&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35822&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.whatwinnersdo.com%2Faddiction-recovery-support%2F For anyone who has entered into addiction recovery, one thing becomes clear...support is needed in order for you to be successful in your addiction recovery. "You alone can do it, but you cannot do it alone" - O. Hobart Mowrer But what makes support such an important component to a successful recovery? And what is the meaning of support when it's pertaining to addiction recovery? It's my understanding that when you are speaking about support in recovery you are really talking about a kind of give and take of honesty. A kind of honesty that others in recovery can identify with. It is this ability to identify with others and have others identify with us that is the true definition of support. The only thing that makes this type of honesty possible is a little something I like to call...HUMI... What Winners Do blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2842809 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:35:48 +0100 2842809 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2094920&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FpjF0Nimcr0Q%2F Which can result in the Big Lie… From “The Language of the Heart,” page 263; “There are, nevertheless, certain occasions where reckless truth-telling may create widespread havoc and permanent damage to others. Whenever this seems possible, we are likely to find ourselves in a bad jam indeed. We shall be torn between two temptations. When conscience agonizes us enough, we may well cast all prudence and love to the winds. We may try to buy our freedom by telling the brutal truth, no matter who gets hurt or how much. But this is not the usual temptation. It is far more probable that we shall veer to the other extreme. We will paint for ourselves a most unrealistic picture of the awful damage we are about to inflict on others. By claiming great compassion and love for our s... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2094920 Sun, 11 Jan 2009 01:03:43 +0100 2094920 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1798363&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FzKg-xvA2YXQ%2F From AA’s Twelve & Twelve, page 86; “There can be only one consideration which should qualify our desire for a complete disclosure of the damage we have done. That will arise in the occasional situation where to make a full revelation would seriously harm the one to whom we are making amends. Or - quite as important - other people. We cannot, for example, unload a detailed account of extramarital adventuring upon the shoulders of our unsuspecting wife or husband. And even in those cases where such a matter must be discussed, let’s try to avoid harming third parties, whoever they may be. It does not lighten our burden when we recklessly make the crosses of others heavier.” I have known those who were heartless, cruel and self-centered in the extreme to the extent... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1798363 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:59:28 +0100 1798363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1786092&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2Fif2KXoYkYsA%2F Doesn’t [always] mean I am guilty… Listening to newcomers at today’s Noon meeting I heard it again. What I sounded like with the same amount of “sober” time. Especially when I attempted to speak about what my father “did” to me to make me drink. That is until an oldtimer asked me if my father poured any booze down my throat. From today’s Daily Reflections; I Am Responsible “For the readiness to take the full consequences of our past acts, and to take responsibility for the well-being of others at the same time, is the very spirit of Step Nine.” “The very thing I fear is my freedom. It comes from my tendency to recoil from taking responsibility for anything: I deny, I ignore, I blame, I avoid. Then one day, I look, I admit, I... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1786092 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 06:15:46 +0100 1786092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1764077&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F4CjooFJtcFo%2F From today’s Daily Reflection; “Made direct amends to such people wherever possible” This reflection speaks of not being able to make amends to those folks who were casual acquaintances. People who passed through our lives briefly or barely. Like those neighbors I used to live near who no doubt heard my late night yelling… “The only amends I can make to those untraceable individuals, the only ‘changes for the better’ I can offer, are indirect amends made to other people, whose paths briefly cross mine. Courtesy and kindness, regularly practiced, help me to live in emotional balance, at peace with myself.” Just a personal thought - as you’re being courteous and kind to your fellow man today, don’t get carried away with your wonderf... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1764077 Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:52:22 +0100 1764077 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1764078&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FMKSCMc4oQG0%2F “Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.” First Things First - changing wherever to whenever gives a different meaning… The Very Spirit; “The readiness to take the full consequences of our past acts, and to take responsibility for the well-being of others at the same time, is the very spirit of Step Nine.” Full consequences. Not partial, half, a little bit or just some. Full. The only exceptions? Cases where our disclosure would cause actual harm. Not delaying because we are afraid… “Earnestly asking God’s help and guidance - meanwhile resolving to do the right thing when it becomes clear, cost what it may?” And - the right thing is clear to you exactly how? Oh, yeah - “lay th... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1764078 Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:01:17 +0100 1764078 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1696364&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F-vtFMAlwrMU%2F Today’s Daily Reflections speaks of removing the ground glass in us. Damn - that’s sounds and “feels” painful… Remember, from the Seventh Step; “In every case, pain had been the price of admission into a new life.” I’d asked God for dozens of do-overs, never believing there was any hope. In addition, I sure didn’t exactly perceive that were I to be graced with a new life that, by necessity, it would have to be born through pain! “But this admission price had purchased more than we expected. It brought a measure of humility, which we soon discovered to be a healer of pain.” In our Eighth Step we discover more about pain: “I learned that the pain of my defects is the very substance God uses to cleanse my character and to... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1696364 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 06:15:27 +0100 1696364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1677289&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FjI8LVMFywfk%2F Once upon a time when I was a car salesman I lost jobs because I was told I was too honest. Then, and now, I still see polls that show that one of the Top Ten Most Dishonest jobs is a car salesman. So, I’m grateful. Naturally, I consider that, in “those days,” I was drinking so how honest could I have been? I suppose only my customers could say… When working an Eighth and Ninth Step there is a lengthy discussion in the Big Book about just exactly how honest we ought to be. The answer, for me, is on page 80. Referring to a wrong a man felt he could not possibly make right, here is what follows; “After consulting with his wife and partner he came to the conclusion that it was better to take those risks than to stand before his Creator quilty of such ruinous slan... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1677289 Sun, 03 Aug 2008 04:00:56 +0100 1677289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1652480&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F345370795%2F If you don’t know please ask your sponsor… From today’s Daily Reflection: “Those Who Still Suffer” “For us, if we neglect those who are still sick, there is unremitting danger to our own lives and sanity.” It is my personal opinion (fwiw) that this is a piece of writing that undoes the profundity expressed in meetings that the newcomer is the most important person in the room. I think whoever made that statement up about the newcomer needed to say something they thought made them sound important. When you get down to reality, in a belief system based on a Higher Power, each and every life in our rooms is equal in value and has no more or less importance. We are all equal! “I know the torment of drinking compulsively to quiet my nerves and my ... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1652480 Fri, 25 Jul 2008 06:15:25 +0100 1652480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1652481&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F344987909%2F Keep your big mouth shut! This, for me, goes a very long way to defining humility. I was always Johnny-On-The-Spot when someone was troubled, in harms’ way or hurt. It seemed that accidents happened close by and I’d be there to help. But I had a motive despite the coincidental nature of most of these circumstances. I wanted attention. I wanted someone to pay attention to me, to reward me. Self-centered in the extreme because if I didn’t receive attention or reward I got angry and pouted. Of true humility I knew absolutely nothing. Then came AA and wise oldtime AA members including Matt and Rick. We talked about humility. We spoke about doing good things for others. Then they laid it on me, thankfully. I can’t remember who, I believe it was Matt, who listened to me a... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1652481 Thu, 24 Jul 2008 21:04:30 +0100 1652481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1646241&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F343117967%2F My friend asked and I’ll try… My first thought relating to how pride aims at the destruction of others comes from the term “character assassination.” Suppose for a moment that you’ve worked on a project for your company for months finally arriving at what you believe in your heart is a magnificent piece of work. Your co-worker has also worked on a similar project and has the same feelings about his/hers. The boss chooses their project for the honors. And you begin a campaign of character assassination maligning anything good about your fellow worker, raising doubt about anything they’ve ever accomplished. You tell everybody willing to listen how your co-worker is nothing more than a dirty so-and-so, a cheat, a philanderer, a thief and on and on… Th... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1646241 Wed, 23 Jul 2008 02:30:06 +0100 1646241 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1642768&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F341466480%2F I’m an alcoholic. I know, for me, that I drank over guilt and, if I don’t continue to follow the principles I’ve learned, I’ll drink over guilt again. I’m certain there are others who are the same. I’m also certain, from current experiences, that many are somehow being misled into believing that pride in recovery is okay. Which is why I stay on this quest for writings about pride vs humility. This is from “The Language of the Heart,” June, 1961 - “Humility For Today,” pg. 258. Bill wrote: “Today I think I can trace a clear linkage between my guilt and my pride. Both of them were certainly attention-getters. In pride I could say, ‘Look at me, I am wonderful.’ In guilt I would moan, ‘I’m awful.’ T... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1642768 Mon, 21 Jul 2008 11:22:18 +0100 1642768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1640346&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F340661295%2F Really? But you’ve “done” your Seventh Step, right? Um Hmmm. This applies to me as well folks! Today’s Reflection; Shortcomings Removed “When I put the Seventh Step into action I must remember that there are no blanks to fill in.” Isn’t this interesting? If I hadn’t read this I’d be wondering what they meant. They go on to say; “It doesn’t say, ‘Humbly asked Him to (fill in the blank) remove our shortcomings.’ For years, I filled in the imaginary blank with ‘Help me!’ ‘Give me the courage to,’ and ‘Give me the strength,’ etc. The Step says simply that God will remove my shortcomings.” Must be my lack of faith that keeps me in a never-ending condition of keeping my shortco... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1640346 Sun, 20 Jul 2008 13:48:55 +0100 1640346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1635096&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F338421441%2F “Of myself I am nothing, the Father doeth the works.” From page 75 in AA’s 12&12; “During this process of learning more about humility, the most profound result of all was the change in our attitude toward God. And this was true whether we had been believers or unbelievers. We began to get over the idea that the Higher Power was a sort of bush-league pinch hitter, to be called upon only in an emergency.” You know what the two foxhole prayers are - don’t you? The first is “Please dear God, get me out of this one and I swear, I’ll never do it again!” The second? The second is - “phew………” “The notion that we would still live our own lives, God helping a little now and then, began to evaporate. Many o... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1635096 Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:49:45 +0100 1635096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1622330&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F335799849%2F The title of today’s Daily Reflection is Pride. Without going into detail, this reading is very appropriate for me right now! I really like what it says because it truly nails the subject and transcends pitiful and pathetic injustices. “For thousands of years we have been demanding more than our share of security, prestige, and romance. When we seemed to be succeeding, we drank to dream still greater dreams. When we were frustrated, even in part, we drank for oblivion. Never was there enough of what we thought we wanted. In all these strivings, so many of them well-intentioned, our crippling handicap had been our lack of humility. We had lacked the perspective to see that character-building and spiritual values had to come first, and that material satisfactions were not the pur... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1622330 Tue, 15 Jul 2008 06:15:40 +0100 1622330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1556496&cid=t_143241_109_f&fid=35677&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FBrainBasedBusiness%2F%7E3%2F323162808%2Fhumility_transforms_a_workplac.html Humility yields to arrogance in firms that fail to nip its buds. Champions of modesty on the other hand can inspire an entire workplace to innovations that lead to growth.Some say you cannot make it to the top with mere meekness. Others say you’ll become the only one there and fall alone, if arrogance propelled you.What do you say?Brain based business works on the premise that people work harder, longer and better around unassuming leaders. A Jones 2000 study showed that people are 52% less likely to leave jobs where they receive respect. Ready to risk reducing arrogance at work? People shake hands with humility and activate brain cells for invention, when: 1. Doctors ask two-footed questions to collaborate with patients for care and cures.2. Faculty at university raise achievement b... BrainBasedBusiness blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1556496 Tue, 01 Jul 2008 09:27:53 +0100 1556496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1500098&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F125221372%2F This post is worthy of repetition. It recently came to the attention of a number of us that a gal in New York with 19 years clean in NA is “back out there.” She is loved by many, and knowing that she’s killing herself is being felt by those she helped. As yet, none of them have followed her, thank God. Please, these stories are real and true. Take them to heart. Alcoholism, addiction, kills people. [Originally posted June 15th, 2007] **************************************** I’m paying attention. To Mary Christine. To dAAve. To a host of others. And I have to re-tell this story. A story I had the absolute pleasure of repeating to an “oldtimer” sitting on his time at a meeting here a few years back. Many AA groups on Long Island have group anniversaries e... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1500098 Sat, 07 Jun 2008 12:08:38 +0100 1500098 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1451990&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F9-approaches-to-humility%2F The Power of Humility Recovery, for me, was not just getting sober. Recovery also involved finding a new spiritual philosophy. I was often reminded of the slogan; ‘The man I was, was a drinker. The man I was would drink again.’ I had to change. And false humility was my primary character defect. I had shortcomings in the following areas of my attitudes. If one places ‘Principles Before Personalities’ and deals with ‘First Things First’, one approaches genuine humility, where there is enormous inner power. Actions to approach humility; Free yourself from the demands of your ego, and there is no limit to where you can go. Let go of your desire to control others, and you vastly improve the ability to control, focus and direct your own actions. Let go of the illusion that y... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1451990 Mon, 19 May 2008 14:38:48 +0100 1451990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1395168&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F111733807%2F Ever have one of those days??? “Some will object to many of the questions posed, because they think their own character defects have not been so glaring. To these it can be suggested that a conscientious examination is likely to reveal the very defects the objectionable questions are concerned with. Because our surface record hasn’t looked too bad, we have frequently been abashed to find that this is so simply because we have buried these self-same defects deep down in us under thick layers of self-justification. Whatever the defects, they have finally ambushed us into alcoholism and misery.” 12 & 12, pgs 53-54 Hence, (I believe), the “profundity” if you spot it, you got it. Then… another “no co-incidence.” Going back a few readings an... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1395168 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 06:25:00 +0100 1395168 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1335295&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35822&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FWhatWinnersDo%2F%7E3%2F259990679%2F For anyone who has entered into addiction recovery, one thing becomes clear…support is needed in order for you to be successful in your addiction recovery. “You alone can do it, but you cannot do it alone” - O. Hobart Mowrer But what makes support such an important component to a successful recovery? And what is the meaning of support when it’s pertaining to addiction recovery? (more…) Related Posts:March 29, 2008 -- Just Don’t Do It Doesn’t Work…How Do We Tell Young People About The Dangers Of Addiction? (0)March 15, 2008 -- Fortune Teller or Fellow Recovering Addict? (2)March 11, 2008 -- One of THOSE Days…Getting Through Tough Days In Recovery (4)March 5, 2008 -- How Do You Make Yourself Feel Better (8)February 29, 2008 -- Addiction R... What Winners Do blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1335295 Fri, 28 Mar 2008 17:57:36 +0100 1335295 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1271898&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fhumility-in-recovery%2F Conclusions. The present results suggest that, relative to their more humble counterparts, recovering alcoholics who lack humility (ie., high narcissists) do not have more difficulty surrendering to the idea they are powerless over their drinking problem. However, recovering alcoholics who lack authority-related humility do show a marked lack of faith in the proposition that a Higher Power offers a viable solution to their alcohol problem. Consequently, they are quite reluctant to surrender their willfulness, and thereby accept help from a Higher Power or even a sponsor. Given that faith in the existence, availability or efficacy of a Higher Power is difficult for this subsample of individuals, it seems likely that - in the context of 12-step recovery - shortfalls in humility may serve... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1271898 Sun, 02 Mar 2008 13:14:06 +0100 1271898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1261840&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fstay-humble-or-stumble%2F   To be humble is to be balanced in our opinion of ourselves. Humility does not swagger with false pride nor grovel in self-depreciation. Humility is accepting the truth about ourselves. The good news for co-dependents and adult children of alcoholics / addicts is that we are blessed with many fine qualities that we have negated. We need to stand tall and be grateful for these gifts. “Thank you” should become a part of our emotional vocabulary. False pride is often a stance taken to cover up terrible feelings of inadequacy.But the truth is we have our own unique worth. Today I will accept my good qualities and acknowledge my defects. I have the courage to change my behavior and the wisdom to change my false beliefs. From the book; Gentle Reminders - Daily Affirmations f... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1261840 Wed, 27 Feb 2008 12:56:21 +0100 1261840 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1138130&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F213615497%2F This is only one of them but it sets the theme… From The Language of the Heart: Bill W’s Grapevine Writings, page 263; “There are, nevertheless, certain occasions where reckless truth-telling may create widespread havoc and permanent damage to others. Whenever this seems possible, we are likely to find ourselves in a bad jam indeed. We shall be torn between two temptations. When conscience agonizes us enough, we may well cast all prudence and love to the winds. We may try to buy our freedom by telling the brutal truth, no matter who gets hurt or how much. But this is not the usual temptation. It is far more probable that we shall veer to the other extreme. We will paint for ourselves a most unrealistic picture of the awful damage we are about to inflict on others. By clai... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1138130 Wed, 09 Jan 2008 06:04:32 +0100 1138130 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1124931&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F209669088%2F Drop me on my head! I recently listened to some smart ass who arrived at a meeting late, listened to a couple of folks who were on topic, then spoke out to make the assinine statement that God certainly has dropped him on his head in order to get his attention. How Profound!!! Ah, I suppose its just me (spiritual axiom), but these folks who have this stupid (yeah, stupid) need to contradict sound experience in order to gain some level of sick attention all need a serious flogging. This same person wakes up each morning and does a First Step. I often wonder if he goes to the bathroom before or after or takes the First Step while he’s doing a #1. Silly? So, during the night - is it not necessary to be a real alcoholic while you’re sleeping? Is sleeping a cure for alcoholism? Do y... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1124931 Wed, 02 Jan 2008 02:50:17 +0100 1124931 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1096722&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F200609824%2F From “Back To The Fundamentals,” a story in the book “Came To Believe,” page 64; “At one time, the great jurist Oliver Wendell Holmes was asked what his religion was. And he answered that his whole concept of God could be found in the first two words of the Lord’s Prayer. So I got out a copy of the Lord’s Prayer and looked at it. The first word was “Our.” It didn’t say “your,” “my,” “her,” or “his.” It said, “Our Father…” He is the Father to all of us. He created every one of us. I happen to be a father myself - one of the world’s worst, but no matter how sick or how bad I got in my days of drinking, I never once wished any harm to my own children. Nothing but... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1096722 Sat, 15 Dec 2007 03:45:53 +0100 1096722 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1082952&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F197910455%2F Another phrase that I rarely hear anymore… “with a mustard seed of faith you can move a mountain but you better bring a shovel.” The Topic? The Third Step. The New Resource? Grapevine articles from Mel B. The article for this entry; Let Go and Let God The Anxieties that Accompany Many Problems Besides Drinking Often Respond to Handling the AA Way “I’ve turned the problem of alcohol over to the Higher Power, but I have trouble in many other things. How do we go about turning our whole lives over? This subject has come up at our beginners’ meeting, but we can’t seem to clarify our understanding that the suggested Third Step does not pertain solely to the problem of alcohol or just the first drink.” Thus writes an AA member who is perplexed by ... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1082952 Mon, 10 Dec 2007 07:00:38 +0100 1082952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1051327&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F190961069%2F Out of the 12&12, page 104-105; “We discover that we do receive guidance for our lives to just about the extent that we stop making demands upon God to give it to us on order and on our terms.” Naturally I think to myself “what demands do I place on God for guidance for my life?” How about this - whatever it may be, suppose a romance going awry, and after a particularly heated argument followed by such deep ill feelings that the continuation of the relationship is threatened, I do or say something like “G dammit, why does this have to be like this?” or “This isn’t fair! Why me?” or one of thousands of variations… This may not be true of you, or anyone else, but it is true of me. I have such a perverse faith in God that I think... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1051327 Mon, 26 Nov 2007 23:06:02 +0100 1051327 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1048000&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F189807296%2F Yes, I am grateful. My personal world is filled with wonder and joy. I’ve never had it so good! I see many of you who post gratitude lists often, some every day, and I have yet to do that. I ought to be able to post one a mile long for all the good my God has given me. And that would be the very first thing I am grateful for - that the way I “see” God has changed so dramatically. I no longer blame him for all the bad stuff in my life. I am faithful that He/She loves me beyond anything I can truly imagine else I’d not be sober. Today and yesterday I had a roof over my head and slept in a bed. I got to take a shower and eat. There have been times when I didn’t eat, there have been times when I came within hours of sleeping in the woods or the hotel Chevy and did... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1048000 Sat, 24 Nov 2007 13:45:48 +0100 1048000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1019424&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F183322522%2F I’ll ask you a question - when you make a mistake, what is your first thought? You hit your thumb with a hammer, what do you say in anger and to whom? You say something that sounded right at the moment you said it and seconds later you find it was totally inappropriate, what do you think in anger and about whom? Have you ever looked in the mirror and told yourself “I Hate You!” How often do you give this consideration - “Why Me God? What the he** is wrong with me? Why do I have to live like this?” I’d suggest, for those who might still be drinking, that you afford yourself the opportunity to stop drinking and see if your thinking about this changes. I can’t promise you anything though because I still have this thinking although it has lessened thro... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1019424 Mon, 12 Nov 2007 01:02:28 +0100 1019424 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1018438&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F182509119%2F And you’re “in recovery.” Working a Twelve Step program… From pages 87-88 (for those who “complain” of being tired); “As we go through the day we pause, when agitated or doubtful, and ask for the right thought or action. We constantly remind ourselves we are no longer running the show, humbly saying to ourselves many times each day “Thy will be done.” We are then in much less danger of excitement, fear, anger, worry, self-pity, or foolish decisions. We become much more efficient. We do not tire so easily, for we are not burning up energy foolishly as we did when we were trying to arrange life to suit ourselves.” I might suggest, based on personal experience with self, that if you’re tired enough to speak about it you’... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1018438 Sat, 10 Nov 2007 03:17:22 +0100 1018438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=999534&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F178596475%2F To bring me peace of mind which I lose on many occasions. It’s on pages 104-5 in our 12&12. I first made this a part of my life when the divorce was happening. Now it often brings me back to the God I understand. “We discover that we do receive guidance for our lives to just about the extent that we stop making demands upon God to give it to us on order and on our terms.” Do you think you understand this? What do you do when life doesn’t go your way? Do you complain? Do you “wish” something would happen to your benefit when it seems it is going in the opposite direction? Do you get aggravated or angry? Do you become depressed? I do… and I complain to God. I say something along the lines of “god dammit!” Or - “Come on God, quit... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=999534 Fri, 02 Nov 2007 06:32:22 +0100 999534 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=987211&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F176723208%2F This is derived from a writing of Bill W.’s that I’ve referred to before; “The Next Frontier: Emotional Sobriety” Since I seem to have always had a difficult challenge with the subject personally and so many I’ve known share the challenge, I look for an answer. This writing of Bill’s comes from “The Language of the Heart” and I originally found it by looking through the book’s index for “Love.” Go figure… If you’re an alcoholic like me you never stop loving those with whom you’ve “fallen in love.” And, if you’re like me, you share the continuing, apparent, failure, to achieve and maintain a relationship based in love. Companionship. Love. The desire to procreate. All natural and gifted to ... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=987211 Mon, 29 Oct 2007 15:54:33 +0100 987211 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=977404&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F174839362%2F And I’m not immune to sadness these days thanks to Alcoholics Anonymous and the Twelve Steps. It was a “simple” lesson 13 years ago when our divorce was finalized. I had to learn how to mourn the loss, without alcohol. I have no idea how Barbara got through it even though a couple of years later I was told by my youngest son he had caught his mother drinking alone with an attitude. I was able to muddle through with the help of many true friends including a wonderful sponsor. 3 and 11. This time is only slightly different. There is a forty five year history amongst this wreckage, during most of which no communication or contact had occurred. We had been separated by others’ efforts many years prior to finding each other again. A dream come true, an absolute miracle.... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=977404 Thu, 25 Oct 2007 13:07:28 +0100 977404 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=970168&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F173438192%2F Trying not to speak too soon again, Comcast appears to have settled their difficulties with their connectivity (we’ve stayed online for 6 hours plus now) so I’d like to repeat this too you from the desk of Dr. Bob; Humility “Perpetual quietness of heart. It is to have no trouble. It is never to be fretted or vexed, irritable or sore; to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against me.” “It is to be at rest when nobody praises me, and when I am blamed or despised, it is to have a blessed home in myself where I can go in and shut the door and pray to my Father in secret and be at peace, as in a deep sea of calmness, when all around and about is seeming trouble.” I don’t know if this is still there, but the copy I found says that... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=970168 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 19:07:17 +0100 970168 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=937001&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F167447210%2F If you need a quick lesson, this is how you do it. Not knowing whether you are right or wrong, sharing with close friends and fellow, trusted AA members, coming to a conclusion based on personal experience… You make a decision and stick to it no matter what. I have believed, and felt, like I was in an abusive relationship for quite some time now. Emotionally. On the receiving end. Ego has played a very large part in this and I have had to work to stay as humble as possible which has definitely not been easy. Some might say impossible :) But I had had it weeks ago after consistent put downs and emasculating commentary and judgments. Yes, my perception, however, run past those I trust and then some I don’t for a fair “evaluation.” Kicked the decision back and forth ma... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=937001 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 13:39:04 +0100 937001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=904600&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F161318753%2F The oldtimers told us that the process of getting sober and staying sober would be a series of ups and downs. Peaks and Valleys is the way they described it. They meant there would be good times and bad times, i.e. reality would set in. We’d have our high moments and our low moments. Highs = peaks. Lows = valleys. With pain there is growth. It’s in the valleys that I grow. From pg. 72 in the 12&12: “For us, the process of gaining a new perspective was unbelievably painful.” Page 74: “We are obliged to choose between the pains of trying and the certain penalties of failing to do so.” “Our eyes begin to open to the immense values which have come out of painful ego-puncturing. Until now, our lives have been largely devoted to running from pain an... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=904600 Wed, 26 Sep 2007 01:19:36 +0100 904600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=882806&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F158304588%2F I met the woman who became my wife in a bar. In those days she drank, a lot. Then we got married… I kept drinking, she stopped. I found lots of new drinking buddies through the years. I’m sure Bill W. did also yet the first remained the most important just like mine. And we both had one of these; A kitchen table. My last drink was at my dining room table but I consumed much alcohol in front of my wife at a table very similar to this one. This is the actual table that Ebby sat at with Bill when Ebby offered Bill a novel idea. He said,”Why don’t you choose your own conception of God?” That statement hit me hard…it was only a matter of being willing to believe in a Power greater than myself. Nothing more was required of me to make my beginning.” [Q... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=882806 Tue, 18 Sep 2007 23:53:11 +0100 882806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=838127&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F151636911%2F At least, this poison does… Strangely, I discover (or, it discovers me) information which I have the opportunity to put together comfortably for myself and perhaps for you. I know some of you may feel uncomfortable with it and I’ll always let you know so you have the opportunity to look away. This is another of those cases where religion will be discussed, spoken about, referred to. The Bizarre? Before I begin - its been a very long time since the names “Barbara” and “Mark” have appeared to me in the same place. They did that for 22 years. Poison? I’m doing a bit of research for the post title and I find this; 3. (idiomatic) A drink; liquor I’ve had another comment appearing to be from Dick B. in moderation for some time again. I’m not ... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=838127 Mon, 03 Sep 2007 14:04:45 +0100 838127 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=835539&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F150730875%2F The oldtimers (longtimers if you prefer) talked of letting newcomers have enough rope. Typically they’d discover they had a “know-it-all” as a new sponsee and it would be next to impossible to get recovery through a very thick, “intelligent,” skull. They knew the answers and they’re in the Steps! The Third Step and Eleventh Step. Let ‘em go and pray for the power… Then they sat back and let us self-will ourselves about our business because we were so smart, watched as we banged our heads against brick wall after brick wall, shook their heads knowingly as we whined endlessly and once we’d had enough self-imposed pain those of us who were sick and tired of being sick and tired came crawling back with our tails between our legs asking for ... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=835539 Fri, 31 Aug 2007 23:24:26 +0100 835539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=828378&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F149647743%2F Once upon a time when I was a car salesman I lost jobs because I was told I was too honest. Then, and now, I still see polls that show that one of the Top Ten Most Dishonest jobs is a car salesman. So, I’m grateful. Naturally, I consider that, in “those days,” I was drinking so how honest could I have been? I suppose only my customers could say… When working an Eighth and Ninth Step there is a lengthy discussion in the Big Book about just exactly how honest we ought to be. The answer, for me, is on page 80. Referring to a wrong a man felt he could not possibly make right, here is what follows; “After consulting with his wife and partner he came to the conclusion that it was better to take those risks than to stand before his Creator quilty of such ruinous slan... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=828378 Wed, 29 Aug 2007 13:32:56 +0100 828378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=825535&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F148595560%2F “Into Action” speaks about our Eighth and Ninth Steps. On page 79, while mentioning that reparations take innumerable forms “some general principles which we find guiding” are spoken of. We are then reminded “that we have decided to go to any lengths to find a spiritual experience.” “No matter what the personal consequences may be.” We are also reminded to think first… “Usually, however, other people are involved. Therefore, we are not to be the hasty and foolish martyr who would needlessly sacrifice others to save himself from the alcoholic pit.” Furthermore; “Before taking drastic action which might implicate other people we secure their consent. If we have obtained permission, have consulted with others, asked God t... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=825535 Mon, 27 Aug 2007 01:02:46 +0100 825535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=825537&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F148085899%2F This is for my friend Tony… Sober, recovered, recovering, in recovery, dry, quality dry, simply not drinking, are all, each and every one, overshadowed by one simple fact - we’re human! The God that I understand made us fallible and we make mistakes. With a program of recovery to work with, we use invaluable tools to make amends and change, thereby living life on an extremely better plane than we had. One mistake we often make is to react. Gosh - an All-Star professional baseball player hits .300 and makes $20 million/yr. What are we to expect of ourselves? Perfection? I doubt it. I think you reacted to an uncalled for judgment from someone who is no more qualified to make a judgment than the “Man in the Moon.” He said “Shame on you!” For what? Deliverin... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=825537 Sat, 25 Aug 2007 13:34:32 +0100 825537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=825539&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F146889367%2F Curiously, as I read these words, it instantly comes to mind how one can spot someone who isn’t quite all they crack themselves up to be… From the 12&12, page 77; “how… we may develop the best possible relations with every human being we know.” And we certainly don’t do that by stealing either their physical wealth or their emotions, now do we? And the fact that our literature says: “It is a task which we may perform with increasing skill, but never really finish” is not an excuse for poor behavior! “Learning how to live in the greatest peace, partnership, and brotherhood with all men and women, of whatever description, is a moving and fascinating adventure.” How true… “Every A.A. has found that he can make little ... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=825539 Wed, 22 Aug 2007 12:15:33 +0100 825539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=825540&cid=t_143241_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F146491205%2F The last set of Step Promises we had was the Fifth Step Promises. Why? Because there aren’t any Sixth or Seventh Step Promises, according to those who’ve done the research. There is an (yes, singular) Eighth Step Promise and its a doozy! It takes some effort to stretch your imagination around the statement being a promise and I haven’t quite made that jump yet, but its worth repeating if only for its recovery value. The key word being “effort.” The Eighth Step Promise from the AA History Lovers Group at Yahoo! Now we need more action, without which we find that “Faith without works is dead.” (76:3) I want to remember the last sentence in the Seventh Step: “If that degree of humility could enable us to find the grace by which such a deadly obs... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=825540 Tue, 21 Aug 2007 12:36:01 +0100 825540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=830140&cid=t_143241_87_f&fid=36069&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffrankiespeakingfrankly.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F08%2Fone-month-to-live.html Dear Bobbie was told a few weeks ago that she had just one month to live. She has gallbladder cancer that has spread throughout her body. The news was a big shock to us all. I don't know if she was expecting it - she just went in to hospital to have an exploratory operation - we just thought she had gall stones. She seems to be handling things very well - too well many would say.Bobbie is a wonderful lady that runs a mothers and babies coffee morning each Friday. She charges nothing and asks for just a small donation for tea, coffee and her homemade cakes. Each week she arrives early and sets out several themed areas for play - a kitchen with old fashioned cooking utensils and dough, a dressing up area, cars and trains with garages and stations, baby slides and cushions...At the end of eac... Frankie Speaking Frankly blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=830140 Tue, 14 Aug 2007 12:48:00 +0100 830140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=830142&cid=t_143241_87_f&fid=36069&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffrankiespeakingfrankly.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F07%2Falan-johnston-what-man.html A lot has been happening in the UK news recently, that again I couldn't let this wonderful moment go without comment. The release of Alan Johnston was welcome news - hearing him talk to the press shortly after his release a precious moment exemplifying the human spirit as it should be - if you didn't catch it, I recommend you watch a snapshot and learn from the wisdom he demonstrated throughout his experience.The moment that brought a tear to my eye was when he spoke with humility about other people that in his opinion were facing an ordeal worse than his own:There are people who have been told they have nine months to live and most of those people handle that with grace. I told myself that I was waiting to live my life again and it would be shameful if I couldn't do it with dignity. (Sour... Frankie Speaking Frankly blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=830142 Thu, 05 Jul 2007 12:33:00 +0100 830142