We have entered the world of the Spirit. Our next function is to grow in understanding and effectiveness. This is not an overnight matter. It should continue for our lifetime. Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 84
The word "entered" . . . and the phrase "entered into the world of the Spirit" are very significant. They imply action, a beginning, getting into, a prerequisite to maintaining my spiritual growth, the "Spirit" being the immaterial part of me. Barriers to my spiritual growth are self-centeredness and a materialistic focus on worldly things. Spirituality means devotion to spiritual instead of worldly things, it means obedience to God's will for me. I understand spiritual things to be: unconditional love, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, self-control and humility. Any time I allow selfishness, dishonesty, resentment and fear to be a part of me, I block out spiritual things. As I maintain my sobriety, growing spirituality becomes a lifelong process. My goal is spiritual growth, accepting that I'll never have spiritual perfection. Reprinted from AA Daily Reflections
hey (((gammy))) for me it was ACCEPTING my defeat, my total dependence on my higher power, giving up the "ego/ self will" that has helped me this far.....i still have trouble surrendering something, but i keep saying "i am WILLING" becuz i am and my hp can work with that........being willing----honest-----open to HP, and myself, i must trust that i am "inching" forward even tho i feel i am not...............gr8 share, hugs/ rosie
