In our recovery, we find it essential to accept reality. Once we can do this, we do not find it necessary to continue drinking in an attempt to change our perceptions.
Alcohol was used to buffer us from the full force of life. When we stopped drinking and entered recovery, we found ourselves confronted directly with life. We may have experienced disappointment, frustration, or anger. Events may not happen the way we want them to. The self-centeredness we cultivated in our alcoholism had distorted our perceptions of life; it was difficult to let go of our expectations and accept life as it is.
We learned to accept our lives by working the Twelve Steps of recovery. We discovered how to change our attitudes and let go of character defects. We no longer needed to distort the truth or to run from situations. The more we practice the spiritual principles contained in the steps, the easier it becomes to accept life exactly as it comes to us.
Just for Today: I will practice self-acceptance by practicing the Twelve Steps.