Today I would like to share that much of what I desire in this life is surprisingly coming to me as a gift from God rather than a goal for God. In the book “Alcoholics Anonymous” page 8 one of the founders, Bill W. shares, “I was to know happiness, peace, and usefulness in a way that is incredibly ... Read More
The Only Real Gift in the Room – Steps 6 and 7
A good friend of mine invited me to a party over the holidays. It was a gift exchange. Each woman invited was asked to purchase an ornament and bring it to the party wrapped. Having had no experience with this kind of an activity I asked the hostess, “What kind of an ornament?” “Oh, you know, one ... Read More
Potato Peels Are Just The Beginning – Steps 4-10
Who knew a few potato trimmings could cause such trauma in the kitchen! The day of rest turned into the day of the big mess with just a flick of the disposal switch. With chicken gravy on the stove and the taters my daughter had cleaned and seasoned baking in the oven, Sunday dinner looked like it ... Read More
“Who’s Character Is In Question?” – Step 7 – Humility
Recently, while I was on my knees speaking to my Heavenly Father I was struck with a thought that made me pause. It seemed to be a call to rethink the kinds of things I say to the God of the Universe. What came to me was that often in my prayers I pray for Heavenly Father, the perfect Father of my ... Read More
“Fit Us For Heaven” – Step 7
My favorite Christmas Carol is “Away In A Manger.” I smile as I look at the Hymnbook for the name of the one who penned these words. “Anonymous” it says - of course. I love the third verse. It expresses perfectly my Christmas wish, my Christmas prayer: “Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to ... Read More
“Ya Mean I Can Ask?!?!?!” – Step 7
Late one Sunday afternoon, in the middle of the family dinner, my daughter, who is only generally familiar with the principles of recovery, sat in my office feeding her new baby. She was tired. It had been a challenging day. Her mind was racing with thoughts of the frustrating Sunday morning she’d ... Read More
“Ethan, Patience Means Be Quiet!” – Steps 6 and 7
We've had the great experience of having three of our adult children, their spouses, and children live with us at separate times. It has been great fun to be a full time grandma and enjoy once again observing the early learning of little ones. One day as I sat outside the entrance to the kitchen I ... Read More
Sea Treasure! Can You See It? – Step 7
A trip to Southern California has to include a trip to the beach. That's where the eleven of us headed yesterday. We stayed until all of us had gotten wet, dug for crabs, built roads and castles and tunnels in the sand, until the seagulls had eaten Carson's sandwich and Diana's mini Oreo's (all of ... Read More