Endigar 595 ~ Keep Optimism Afloat
From the Daily Reflections of November 2;
The other Steps can keep most of us sober and somehow functioning. But Step Eleven can keep us growing, . . . (The Language of the Heart, page 240)
A sober alcoholic finds it much easier to be optimistic about life. Optimism is the natural result of my finding myself gradually able to make the best, rather than the worst, of each situation. As my physical sobriety continues, I come out of the fog, gain a clearer perspective and am better able to determine what courses of action to take. As vital as physical sobriety is, I can achieve a greater potential for myself by developing an ever-increasing willingness to avail myself of the guidance and direction of a Higher Power. My ability to do so comes from my learning-and practicing-the principles of the A.A. program. The melding of my physical and spiritual sobriety produces the substance of a more positive life.
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I refer to my physical sobriety as abstinence. I know how to achieve abstinence in AA. Mostly, when I speak of sobriety, it is spiritual sobriety that I am considering. I think most of us view emotional and spiritual sobriety as the same thing. I do not. I think emotional stability and the predominance of serenity are fruits of spiritual sobriety. It is a life of continuous improvement. The belief that I have arrived sets me up to rest on my spiritual laurels. Seeking progress rather than perfection is my goal. This is the primary sources and fruit of my optimism.
Daily Reprieve 
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