A.A. Quote
Our very first problem is to accept our present circumstances as they are, ourselves as we are, and the people about us as they are. This is to adopt a realistic humility without which no genuine advance can even begin. Again and again, we shall need to return to that unflattering point of departure. This is an exercise in acceptance that we can profitably practice every day of our lives. Provided we strenuously avoid turning these realistic surveys of the facts of life into unrealistic alibis for apathy or defeatism, they can be the sure foundation upon which increased emotional health and therefore spiritual progress can be built. AS BILL SEES IT, p. 44

RinC Reflection
At many, and different, times over the last years I have truly struggled to accept life as it really/objectively is. Where I was born, my family, the war in Angola, my marriage, my daughters cancer, my church, my friends, my PTSD, my anger, my community, our politicians, and all too frequently my financial situation. For as long as I want try to fight against everybody and everything I will not know peace. To give up trying to follow Jesus because of the situation would be fatal. Without peace my brain is at serious risk of turning to alcohol as a way of escape. It is why I believe that all sobriety is only as strong as a persons spiritual condition. We live in a spiritual war where acceptance and humility hold the keys to our victory.

I believe that spiritual humility means to know the truth of my "position" with God. A sinner saved by Grace. Called for a purpose, to the good works that He set apart for me from before the beginning of time. This humility informs me of what I can change. That no matter what the worldly consequences are, good or bad, I must trust and follow Him. Apart from Jesus I can do nothing. In Jesus I can do anything. He guarantees to provide His strength and His supernatural peace as I follow His call to me. A spiritual peace as I abide in Him that passes all understanding.

Exodus 33:14 ESV And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
John 15:4-7 ESV Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

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