eleven eleven o'seven
"A person starts to live when he can live outside himself."
--Albert Einstein
When I read that quote today, it reminded me of the third step prayer:
Living outside of self ... It's been difficult to do that lately, because I haven't been getting my way.
People don't treat me the way I think they should. Things don't go according to plan. I fall short of my own expectations. I'm afraid to be honest with my feelings. Uncertainty is stressful. The environment at work is demoralizing.
Yeah, other people are experiencing problems too. But what about me? That attitude is selfish and conceited ... but honest. It's the "bondage of self".
And I'm told that when I feel this way, I need to pray and get outside of self ... that is when a person starts to live.
When I read that quote today, it reminded me of the third step prayer:
"God, I offer myself to Thee - to build with me and to do with me as Thou wilt. Relieve me of the bondage of self, that I may better do Thy will. Take away my difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness to those I would help of Thy Power, Thy Love, and Thy Way of life. May I do Thy will always!"
--Big Book, p. 63
Living outside of self ... It's been difficult to do that lately, because I haven't been getting my way.
People don't treat me the way I think they should. Things don't go according to plan. I fall short of my own expectations. I'm afraid to be honest with my feelings. Uncertainty is stressful. The environment at work is demoralizing.
Yeah, other people are experiencing problems too. But what about me? That attitude is selfish and conceited ... but honest. It's the "bondage of self".
And I'm told that when I feel this way, I need to pray and get outside of self ... that is when a person starts to live.
4 comments:
You might wanna consider working the steps (again) with your sponsor. LOL
I reckon Einstein was referring to seeing one's full potential without becoming self absorbed, as opposed to meaning selfishness (i.e, neglecting the needs of others). Therefore I think you're doing pretty well- as you are analysing your motives and actions, and evaluating them against your own personal goals. Give yourself a big pat on the back, girl!
Awareness of what's making you unhappy is a wonderful thing. You're aware, girl! That is progress. Prayer is a good place to start.
Its the only "action" in the real sence of the word that changes us.See Ya Gods Kid
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