Today's Thought - March

[bluidkiti]

March 1

Never be afraid to sit awhile and think.

~Lorraine Hansberry

Those of us who have experienced cravings and compulsions have at times felt we had no choice but to use an addictive substance or behavior. Resolutions, promises, plans, others' needs, our own dreams and desires - nothing could stop us from acting on our compulsion. Guilt and shame followed, as we knew they would. Sometimes remorse slowed down our using for a while - until the next time.

Recovery offers tools that enable us to stop and think through the consequences of an action we may feel tempted to take. Whether it's picking up our primary addiction or engaging in behavior that feels out of sync with our lives in recovery - telling lies, keeping secrets, indulging in character assassination - we don't have to act instantly. We can call a trusted friend or sponsor, attend a meeting, read recovery literature, share with others, or pray. The same is true when the prospect of something positive arises. We needn't rush into a new job or relationship. We can give ourselves time to test the waters, see how we feel, and think through the consequences of our actions.

Today, I'm not in a rush to take actions or make commitments. I can allow myself time to think.

Today's reading is from the book Glad Day