Twice Gifted p470-475

Good evening folks,

First of all I want to thank Alex Go. for sharing last week, and volunteering no less, it was a n excellent share and we thank you for your service! This week we will be going through Twice Gifted p470-475 in the big book. 

Last week, my buddy Clive T. brought Dr.Bob's version of the Third Step Prayer for us to close with, which is copied down below if you're interested. It reminded me of a time when I was fresh out of rehab, still knee deep in denial about how futile fighting this disease is and yet fully aware something was wrong with me. I had been sober maybe 38 days (30 of which were in the rehab) and I decided to take a summer college course that went on a 30-day overseas field trip, what could go wrong?

I lasted about 24 hrs before I had my first beer with the group and the remaining 29-days was pure misery. Everyday praying no one would order that first drink, struggling my hardest to control that urge, eventually giving in and drinking until passing out into that sweet oblivion which was then followed by remorse, regret and shame the next day... every day... for a month.... 

I found myself each night hanging on to a little book called "The Gentle Weapon" which was a compilation of prayers written by an 18th century hassidic rabbi; Rebbe Nachman of Breslev. No, it wasn't anywhere near enough of what was needed to arrest the disease. But what I did learn throughout all of it was to talk to God from the heart.

That book and Dr. Bob's version of the 3rd step prayer struck me because they deviated so wildly from the rigid formulaic prayers I was used to at my synagogue (ie. church). The notion that I need not say the "right things" or do anything special other than have a desire to reach out to my higher power in order to have a personal relationship with Him who has all power had been taking root. 

Enjoy Dr.Bob's 3rd Step Prayer:

THIRD STEP PRAYER used by Dr. Bob

Dear God,

I'm sorry about the mess I've made of my life.

I want to turn away from all the wrong things I've ever done and all the wrong things I've ever been. Please forgive me for it all.

I know You have the power to change my life and can turn me into a winner. Thank You, God for getting my attention long enough to interest me in trying it Your way.

God, please take over the management of my life and everything about me. I am making this conscious decision to turn my will and my life over to Your care and am asking You to please take over all parts of my life.

Please, God, move into my heart. However You do it is Your business, but make Yourself real inside me and fill my awful emptiness. Fill me with your love and Holy Spirit and make me know Your will for me. And now, God, help Yourself to me and keep on doing it. I'm not sure I want You to, but do it anyhow.

I rejoice that I am now a part of Your people, that my uncertainty is gone forever, and that You now have control of my will and my life. Thank You and I praise Your name. 

Amen.

Happy 24hrs,

David t.

P.S. --> Almost Forgot!! 

I wanted to remind everyone that the International Convention at Manuel Antonio is this week. There is still space for the convention at the costa verde though you will need to find your own sleeping arrangements at this point as I understand the hotel hosting the event is booked. I know several of the Wednesday night crew will be going so I hope you can make it!! 

Regads, (that's regards in bostonian ;)