Endigar 1005
From Courage to Change of Aug 22:
My Al-Anon recovery involves becoming aware of what motivates my choices. I was appalled to discover that fear ruled my life! I seemed to be afraid of everything! I was afraid to say, “No,” to show hurt or anger, to be confused. With clenched teeth and a painted-on smile, I’d say, “Oh no, everything’s okay,” while thinking, “There’ll come a day when I’ll get even.” Even that scared me because I was afraid of my own anger!
Many of my Al-Anon friends used the slogans to deal with their fears, but when fear engulfed me, all I could think of was “Came to believe…” I couldn’t finish the rest of the Second Step, but that one phrase was enough. So when the telephone rang and I was startled and beginning to imagine the worst, I would take a deep breath and say to myself, “Came to believe…” Then it became possible to pick up the phone. And I always hung up feeling so much lighter because we had handled it!
Today’s Reminder
Before taking any action, I need only remind myself that I am in the care of a Higher Power. Whether the words I use say, “Help!” or “Let Go and Let God,” or “Came to believe,” I know that my Higher Power and I can deal with whatever we are facing.
“We turn our will and our life over to the care of God as we understand Him. A Higher Power is like a friend who really cares about us and wants to share our problems.” ~ Alateen—a day at a time
END OF QUOTE—————————————
What truly motivates my choices today?
Am I acting from love, clarity, or connection—or is fear still quietly pulling the strings behind the curtain?
Where does fear most often show up in my life?
Is it in saying “no”? In expressing anger or hurt? In admitting that I don’t have all the answers?
What does my version of the “painted-on smile” look like?
Do I hide behind politeness, performance, or caretaking to avoid conflict or disappointment?
Have I ever been afraid of my own anger?
What would it look like to treat that anger not as something dangerous, but as something needing care and clarity?
Which slogan or phrase helps me breathe when I’m overwhelmed?
When fear surges, could I pause and simply whisper, “Came to believe…” and trust that it’s enough?
What happens in my body when I imagine turning something over to my Higher Power?
Do I clench tighter, or can I sense even the smallest loosening?
When has a simple act—like answering a phone call—become a moment of spiritual courage?
Have I noticed the relief that comes not from control, but from surrender?
How do I experience my Higher Power—as distant theology or as a present friend?
What would it feel like to believe that God is not ashamed of my fear, but gently walking with me through it?
What would change if I stopped trying to be fearless and instead focused on being honest?
Can I accept that “Came to believe…” is not just a beginning—but a way of living?
Today, what fear could I meet with a breath, a whisper, and willingness—rather than a plan?
Could I let go of needing the full sentence and trust that grace understands my half-spoken prayer?
Daily Reprieve 
Leave a comment