Daily Reprieve - December

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December 18

THE HUMBLE AND GENTLE PRAYER

In all times of emotional disturbance or indecision, we can pause, ask for quiet, and in the stillness simply say: "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference. 12&12 p.41

“Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love.” Ephesians 4:2

For what it's worth: Alcohol rendered my emotional outbursts frequent and uncontrolled. I would like to believe that years of sobriety in Alcoholics Anonymous have made a considerable difference in this area. God knows I have worked hard on this defect, practicing Steps 6 and 7 repeatedly. Still, thank God not often, those I love the most are subjected to my emotional eruptions. I tell myself to keep silent; I try to be patient; I try to apply the Prayer of St. Francis; but, without success. Today, if this arises, I pray my Heavenly Father grant me the patience to be silent and say the humble and gentle prayer, the Serenity Prayer. That will work.

God bless you!
Joe W.