The God Box is a tool for letting go . . .
I first heard about the “God Box” nearly 35 years ago at a 12 step meeting. A member of the group said that when she wrote a note to God about a situation that was troubling her, she felt better and the problem seemed to get resolved relatively quickly. I couldn’t wait to try it. I had been weighed down by struggles for so long, it seemed.
It was clear from what she said that any kind of container would work as the “box.” I went home immediately after the meeting and set about finding the perfect container. It was a gold metal can with a lid that had a jewel on it. I’m not sure where it came from but it would serve. I was certain. As a matter of fact, it still sits on my desk. And it doesn’t go unused!
I wrote God my first prayerful request. I know longer remember what it was, of course. But I do still remember the relief I felt, almost instantly. It was miraculous. Why had I not known about this before, I wondered. I became a proponent of the idea, sharing the suggestion with friends and sponsees alike. And to this day, I offer this as a suggestion.
Just last week end when I was teaching a workshop on Detachment and Letting Go at the Dan Anderson Renewal Center at Hazelden I mentioned the God Box as a tool for really letting some thing go that’s “in our way.” And I have already heard from one of the participants that she has used the suggestion already.
It’s a short cut to experiencing peace of mind. It works every time, without fail. However, just like with so many of our behaviors, we can take back the problem again and again. And just as often, we can tuck another note to God in the God box. He never gets tired of our requests for help. It’s how he’s certain we are thinking of him.
Letting go is a spiritual action, isn’t it? It’s the ultimate statement of trust. We are saying that we know God is in charge of others’ lives and all outcomes. However, we some times need the extra nudge to make the letting go process a reality. That’s where the God Box comes in. If you don’t have one, create one. Today. Giving each problem over to the one who can solve it is habit worth strengthening. It will change your life. I promise.
Brad
I have a God box and have been using it for about 20+ years. Just recently I have had some situations that have been out of my control and started putting my prayers back in my God Box. It really does help.
I came across your post by accident or maybe I was supposed to read it. But I thank you for reminding me of my God Box.
Roni
Well I just wrote my first letter. I am so glad this was brought up from an older blog that I had not read. Lots of wisdom is shared here. I wrote Him of course about something that had been weighing on my heart today and classic detachment issues which I seem to struggle with on a daily basis. I am hoping to find peace instead. God Bless!
karencasey
RoniSorry it has taken me a long time to respond. I so appreciate that you have been a steady reader and responder.
Love,
Karen
Kim Woods
I see it has been a while since any other posts here. I hope you are still actively speaking, doing workshops, etc.
This post was EXACTLY what I was looking for regarding a God Box. I am only a few months into my Al-anon recovery; my husband is not working a program; so I feel I really need this!! Making one asap!
karencasey
Kim WoodsHi Kim,
Glad to hear from you. The God Box post was a long time ago, as I recall. I have had dozens and dozens since then, I
think. I have had a few hundred total. At any rate, I hope you search out more of them. I wish you well. al-Anon is a wonderful program. I have been going for many years and still do AA too of course. I continue writing books and doing some workshops but fewer than before. I’m wearing out. haha
Take good care.
Karen
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Annette
The God Box works as does the burning bowl! I’m new to the Al-Anon world and I was introduced to the burning bowl at the first Gulls retreat I attended where you were the speaker. It changed my life. My sponsor told me to get a God Box and I have it now. It really does help to “let it go” and give it over to God. Thanks for what you do.
karencasey
AnnetteSo good to hear from you. I still rely on a God box. It’s such a simple but effective tool.
Happy thanksgiving.
Karen
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Karen
Gloria
I am willing to try the GOD Box today!
karencasey
GloriaHi Gloria,
That’s a great commitment. It does work. I promise you.
Write again and let me know how you are doing.
Karen
mark
I will give this a try. I believe in letting my Higher Power, along with the universe, and anyone who will listen know my problems. This sounds like a good way for me to focus on my Higher Power. Another great piece of knowledge from one of my favorite people. Love and Peace, Mark.
karencasey
markI have found the God box an effective tool for years. I am sure you will love it too. Thanks Mark. You are a dear human being.
Karen