The 3rd promise on page 83-84 of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous states that we will comprehend the word serenity.
What is the strict dictionary definition of the word "serenity?"
It is the "state of being utterly calm especially in the face of difficulty and adversity."
If you are early in your recovery process it is highly unlikely that you will comprehend the word serenity. It is more likely that you will comprehend the word insanity!
However, as you proceed along your unique journey of recovery, you will eventually know what serenity feels like. This promise clearly states that you will comprehend the word serenity. It is not a requirement of the program nor is it possible to feel peace and tranquility 100% of the time.
At his AA home group, Donny, a friend of mine who is a health professional was asked to share on this topic. He distinctly remembered the 1st time he felt serenity.
I was running on my favorite route in the park after a particularly challenging day. Many of my patients were not doing well and some were in extreme pain. Unexpected bills arrived in the mail which placed yet more pressure on my already extremely high debt load. Every time the phone rang, I feared it was going to be another catastrophe. I had a terrible headache and felt sick to my stomach.
I was warned that I was going to be tested early in my sobriety and today was one of those days. I was instructed by my sponsor to do the best I could with each person and each interaction. He guaranteed me success if I faced life one day at a time and one problem at a time.
In my drinking days, I always had a reason to be drunk. If you had problems like I did, youd drink too! However, there is not one time I can remember when my drinking solved problems.
As I replayed my stressful day while running through the park, I suddenly realized that my problems were really not that bad. I was going to talk about it at the meeting tonight and ask for help. There were many people in similar situations that could help me. I was not alone. If I looked after myself, and asked for help I was going to be fine.
I became distinctly aware of my surroundings, as my feet effortlessly moved me towards the powerful ocean. This was the first time in my recovery that I felt so calm and peaceful even after a super stressful day. This was unbelievable. I was under stress but I felt calm and I had no desire to drink. Something magical had just happened.
In the above example, Donny experienced serenity. He felt calm in the face of an imposing storm. Most importantly, he faced his challenges in a very healthy manner and had no urge to drink.
If you are struggling with your recovery program, please remember that you are not alone. Help is only a phone call or a meeting away! It is possible to comprehend the word serenity by working your program and staying away from the 1st drink one day at a time.
Dr. Larry Smith Chiropractor and Author of:
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