“As we let loose our grip on the reins of our lives, we find we are being led, slowly and certainly, in the right direction—towards home.”

– Life with Hope, first edition, page 57

Being mindful is the foundation for my meditation. When I’m in the present, I can trust in the presence of a power greater than myself. There is a connection to “this power” that I strive to improve when I can, and I try all the time. Working to improve this connection is like expanding the space in my mindfulness to sustain a kind of “God’s presence,” ideally, all throughout the day. Seeing my thoughts and feelings as they arise gives me a chance to effectively let go of them before they become triggering. This foundation eliminates a lot of my problems.

Mindfulness practice in turn has many benefits for me. It allows me to be aware of what’s happening in the moment and allows my Higher Power to help me as I need it. This path, which is ever-changing, is my focus in recovery. Practice mindfulness then distractions and illusions will lessen. Love, patience, peace of mind, compassion, happiness and understanding of the true nature of things will be cultivated.

By seeing through “perfect awareness,” I intuitively know what I have to do in the moment. It is kind of a “spiritual guide.” When I make this connection and experience it working in my life, making a difference to me in tangible ways, my ability to maintain conscious contact grows stronger. My faith in that connection to a power greater than myself grows stronger. This practice is bearing fruit in my recovery and adds joy to my life as I build healthy relationships and spiritually-based connections.

Final thought: Today, I will practice mindfulness and my recovery will grow.