January 30 reflection

JANUARY 30 

FREEDOM FROM . . . FREEDOM TO 

We are going to know a new freedom. . . . 

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 83 

Freedom for me is both freedom from and freedom to. The first freedom I enjoy is freedom from the slavery of alcohol. What a relief! Then I begin to experience freedom from fear—fear of people, of economic insecurity, of commitment, of failure, of rejection. Then I begin to enjoy freedom to—freedom to choose sobriety for today, freedom to be myself, freedom to express my opinion, to experience 

peace of mind, to love and be loved, and freedom to grow spiritually. But how can I achieve these freedoms? The Big Book clearly says that before I am halfway through making amends, I will begin to know a "new" freedom; not the old 

freedom of doing what I pleased, without regard to others, but the new freedom that allows fulfillment of the promises 

in my life. What a joy to be free!

Me- what a joy indeed. Of peace joy and freedom. Freedom is the concept I DO have a small understanding. But I shall know more. I have an incredibly free life. Freedom from withdrawal is the biggest freedom I'm grateful for. Now that I'm taking my time in the morning, I take a beat to marvel at how different my daily beginnings are, no hangover, no vomit, no head pounding, no feening for a drink. It was awful and the only cure for morning condition was vodka. 

The other freedoms the author listed I can identify with if I take a moment, be present and think.y prayer today: thank you Rockstar for my life and the freedom you provide me. Help me recognize my blessings and the grace with which you generously give them to me every minute hour and day.