I woke up this morning so happy to be alive and so grateful that I have been given, through my books and personal interactions at workshops and lectures, millions of opportunities to connect with all of you. In 1974 when I first entered a 12 Step room in Minneapolis, MN, I was terrified and hopeless. I couldn’t fathom that I’d ever feel the way all of you looked that night.
The laughter didn’t penetrate, at first. I was convinced there was nothing to laugh about. But the message to come back got through to me. And I have been coming back ever since. AA and Al-Anon are mainstays for me. And after all of these years, I still attend 4 or 5 meetings a week. Surprising? I love what happens when we gather in those most sacred circles. And my life is a bit better every time I show up to share my experience, strength and hope.
I know that I can trust my life, my deepest secrets, my heart with you and you can do the same. When I first came into these rooms I wanted to spread the word of what happens “here” to every one, convinced that the world would shift in a positive way if we all applied these principles. And actually, I still believe that. However, I think, now, that we can still help the world shift by being living examples of gratitude on a daily basis.
Before you turn in for the night, tell at least three other people that you are grateful for their presence in your life. Also, begin a list of the things that happened throughout the day that made you grateful or happy. Leave it by your bed and read it before you even get out of bed in the morning. It’s a sure way to see the day ahead with a more positive set of expectations. Let’s be the change the world is waiting for.
