The Four Words:

I have mentioned this before but think it is worth repeating: Many people want to understand the 12 Steps and how they work, but get confused by the process. I have broken the steps into 4 easy to remember words for the impatient, in a hurry, and forgetful; Okay for myself, but I am willing to share:

Truth : Without it you are in denial, and you can trust no one, even yourself. Hard core addicts and slightly neurotic alike are plagued with subtle lies, distortions, and compromises. Muster the courage to see the big picture about you- no matter how painful. You cannot repaint your house in the dark. It might hurt but it will be no worse then the pain you have been avoiding so far.

Trust : Learning to truly believe God has your back, that you can trust yourself, and that you can trust others. This means giving up on broken relationships for good ones, and letting good people be good and come to their own opinions. Pursuit of God, and a friendliness and commitment to yourself.

Surrender : All your fears, failures, hopes, and 'if onlys'. Put them on the chopping block. In giving them away you may be able to attain them. But a deep and true acceptance that your way won't work is needed to change. Give up. Steve Taylor once wrote "Since I gave up Hope I Feel a Lot Better". You cannot do this unless you really trust God.

Care : Caring for yourself and others in equal terms, is the fulcrum where all the great humans have stood. You cannot care for others if you neglect yourself, and you cannot love yourself if you are neglecting others. You might think you take care of others and yourself, but if you are in denial, and lying, and trying to carry it all alone- you won't know what care is. Try the first three and see how your view of care changes.

Quotes:

"I caution you; there is inherent danger in black and white thinking. Failure to see the nuance, the shades of grey, the subtleties that life is abundant with, these places are where truth abides."

anonymous

The Baseball

The Baseball

The talented local filmmaker Brandon Freeman created this stirring short. It is a 10 minute reminder about life, consequences, and choices. (It also stars acquaintance Colin Mansfield.)