Help Me Build a New Way of Life, God

Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Thursday, November 19, 2015

Help Me Build a New Way of Life, God

“Just as it takes time to build a home, it takes time to build a new way of life.” [1]

Ah. So right. I need to slow down for all sorts of things. Just as I slow down when I build anything, large or small, or be careful when I play a musical instrument or drive a car. Or, just as I consider the honestly, all-important topic for me to be open and aware. Especially when considering anything as important as building a new way of life.

The above words from the daily meditation book Keep It Simple ring true.

Yes, encouraging others to be free from drugs and alcohol is a wonderful step. A huge step. I want to give each person who is staying clean and sober, one day at a time, a huge compliment. And now, after each one strives to remain clean and sober, we move on to the next step. Building a new way of life.

Can I do this, one day at a time? With God’s help. Can I encourage people, one day at a time, to seek a more spiritual way of life? Think about it.

Here is the Action for the Day: “I’ll take time to think over where I’m at … I’ll talk about it with a friend.” (Great words to consider, for any age!)

@chaplaineliza

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[1] Keep It Simple: Daily Meditations for Twelve-Step Beginnings and Renewal. (Hazelden Meditation Series) (San Francisco: Harper & Row Publishers, 1989), November 19 reading.

Facing My Mistakes, and Learning

Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Sunday, November 8, 2015

Facing My Mistakes, and Learning

Ah, how difficult it is to face my mistakes! But, what if I sweep my mistakes under the rug, or minimize them, or even pretend they didn’t even happen? That is the sure way to unhappiness. A definite way to unmanageability, too.

If, as the daily meditation (from Keep It Simple) for today reads, I run from my mistakes and try my darnedest to avoid them, they will follow me. [1] However, if I am able to face my personal mistakes, all to the good! (That includes my fear for an awkward or downright unpleasant mistake at work, or with my family, or an acquaintance. Just to mention a few situations, of course.)

The reading today points out that “Native American culture teaches us that all mistakes in life are gifts. The gift is that we are all given a chance to learn.” [2] Yes, I can find lessons in practically every mistake I ever made. Isn’t hindsight called twenty/twenty?

Yes, I can ask my Higher Power for help. I can pray to God as I understand God for the knowledge and wisdom to acknowledge my mistakes, not to cover them up. Lord, in Your mercy, hear my humble prayers.

@chaplaineliza

Like what you read? Disagree? Share your thoughts with your loved ones and continue the conversation.

Why not visit my sister blogs, “the best of” A Year of Being Kind.   @chaplaineliza And, read my sermons from Pastor, Preacher Pray-er

[1] Keep It Simple: Daily Meditations for Twelve-Step Beginnings and Renewal. (Hazelden Meditation Series) (San Francisco: Harper & Row Publishers, 1989), November 8 reading.

[2] Ibid.