I have learned in recovery that I am happiest with myself, and more agreeable within the world around me, when I am practicing regular prayer and meditation. The OA Twelve & Twelve states that the only wrong way to meditate is to not do it at all! The times that I drift away from this practice often tie into the times my program gets wobbly, or when I start to develop ongoing fears and resentments that do not serve me, or those around me, any good at all.
I really like the approach that is suggested in today’s reading:
- “Develop a genuine desire to meditate” – Well, that first one on the list might set most of us back right from the start! How do we develop a desire? I think the key is in setting goals and developing a plan, and then revising them as needed. It might be helpful to write out a list of reasons about why I want to meditate, and the benefits that will likely arise from this practice.
- I like the check and balance at the end of each day to determine whether or not I took time to meditate, or not. (But then, quickly move on to number 3!)
- This step immediately reminds me not to reproach myself if I have failed to meditate. Instead, I simply move on to #4.
- This is an opportunity to reflect back through the day to see where I could have done things differently, again without recrimination.
- This next step gently nudges me to think back and reflect upon my reasons in number #1, why I wanted to meditate in the first place. The more I reflect upon those reasons the more important this process will become for me.
- And last, but certainly not least… Best advice ever! “Straight away, meditate.”
– Inspired by: “Voices of Recovery” – October 14th
©2024 Experience Strength & Hope Newsletter,
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