Suffer Well

TRUTH

Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, and the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away.

James‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬-‭10

REFLECTION

I’ve got a crap perspective of myself.

It’s gotten better over time with the clarity of sobriety, but I simply cannot zoom out and get a good look at the things that bog me down when I’m in the midst of them.

I’ve got a narrow view of circumstances.

I’m far too easily influenced by the immediate emotions of my present condition than the long-term consequences of my reactions to them.

I don’t do suffering well. Even little suffering. Even momentary discouragement. Even small bumps in the road.

I have a magnifying mind when it comes to me.

Recovery has called this out and forced me to acknowledge the err of my ways. And it’s suggested solutions for me.

I’ve been told to think of myself less rather than thinking less of myself.

I’ve been told (again) that faith without works is dead.

I’ve been told that there’s nothing I can go through that someone else hadn’t already gone through before me. That their encouragement might be my responsibility to seek out.

I’ve been told that this is a new way of life.

I shouldn’t be surprised that it’s uncomfortable to begin trying to live this new way.

It’s a privilege to suffer through some of the uncomfortable blessings of sobriety, hope and faith.

God, help me suffer well.

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NEXT

When you’re ready, here are some tools for you:

1. Book List (amazon link)
   Some of my favorite reads related to recovery and/or wrestling with faith.

2. 4th Step Guide (free download)
   A PDF with instructions and worksheets for a thorough 4th step. Straight from the Big Book. Fearlessness not included.

3. 12-Step Christianity (YouTube)
   My thoughts on the parallels between discipleship and sponsorship.

KEEP LEANING FORWARD

Cheers, Eamonn
Contact on LinkedIn, YouTube & Twitter.