Acceptance Is The Answer – AA Big Book
“Acceptance is the answer to all my problems today. When I am disturbed, it is because I find some person, place, thing or situation—some fact of my life—unacceptable to me, and I can find no serenity until I accept that person, place, thing or situation as being exactly the way it is supposed to be at this moment. Nothing, absolutely nothing, happens in God’s world by mistake. Until I could accept my alcoholism, I could not stay sober; unless I accept life completely on life’s terms, I cannot be happy. I need to concentrate not so much on what needs to be changed in the world as on what needs to be changed in me and my attitudes.”
The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, Fourth Edition, Page 417 (#ad)
Acceptance Is The Answer – 10 Thoughts
- Learning to accept criticism: It can be difficult to hear negative feedback, but accepting it and using it constructively can help you improve and grow.
- Accepting failure: Failure is a natural part of the learning process. Rather than dwelling on it, learn from it and move on.
- Accepting change: Change can be scary and uncomfortable, but accepting it and adapting to it can lead to new opportunities and growth.
- Accepting diversity: Everyone is unique and has their own beliefs, opinions, and ways of living. Accepting and respecting diversity can lead to a more inclusive and harmonious world.
- Accepting imperfection: No one is perfect, and striving for perfection can be exhausting and unattainable. Accepting your flaws and mistakes can lead to greater self-acceptance and inner peace.
- Accepting rejection: Rejection is never easy, but accepting it and using it as a learning experience can help you grow and become more resilient.
- Accepting limitations: We all have our limitations, whether they be physical, emotional, or mental. Accepting these limitations can help you focus on your strengths and work around your weaknesses.
- Accepting uncertainty: Life is unpredictable, and there will always be moments of uncertainty. Learning to accept these moments and trust in yourself and the universe can help you feel more grounded and at peace.
- Accepting responsibility: It can be tempting to blame others for our mistakes or shortcomings, but accepting responsibility for our actions can lead to greater self-awareness and personal growth.
- Accepting others as they are: We cannot change others, only ourselves. Learning to accept others as they are, without trying to change them, can lead to more fulfilling and harmonious relationships.
I am a recovering alcoholic,sober date 06/12/01,not making any meetings these days,living thru the 12 steps each day to the best of my ability,came across the acceptance page a few months ago when I really wanted it back in my life because my thinking was way off track.Thank you.
Glad the fellowship of A.A. could help. If you are able, try to attend some Zoom / Online meetings. Quite good and you can remain anonymous while doing so. You are able to participate (Share) or not, hide your image etc. Hope this helps
Thank you, yes it’s helping, been zooming in into the 319 meeting 24 hours a day, actually shared for second time in years, back to hitting my knees and praying to a God of my understanding, practicing steps 10 and 11 daily.
I love zoom – literature meetings ( big book, 12and 12, As Bill Sees IT, living sober, drop the rock) this are so helpful to identify what works in my life and what doesn’t – I can make healthy choices. Alone I’m at a disadvantage with a fellowship I can see my reflection in others as to if I’m growing or going back to a drink. There is such a thing as a relapse before a relapse with my attitude, behavior and conduct – I wish us all a healthy “ one day at a time” day ☺️
Hey DL,
My name is Kris and I am an alcoholic. As they say, meeting makers – make it. I feel better when I go to meetings. Heck, sometimes it is the first time I smiled all day, but at least I am smiling. I couldn’t do it alone and I am grateful that there are meetings on line all the time and there can be people from all over the country and word on some. I joined one in Ireland one morning when I had a rough patch.
Hang in there one day or one moment at a time. Peace,
Kris
That’s why we call AA a “WE” program!! I can’t do it by myself! Keep on Keepin’ on!! ❤️
Not sure what the magic is but meetings do change my thinking and attitude for the better. Each time I stayed away I thought I was fine then I was left isolated once more. I alienated people because my shortcomings came back full blast. Eventually, I drank or used. That happened to me about 3 times after periods of being dry or sober. I got tired of falling in the same hole expecting different results. Today I have 4 meetings a week. Not only do I make meetings but I am In AA and not on the sidelines. I have a fellowship today. Most important I have God in my life Daily. Rarely have we seen a person who thoroughly follows our path. I go to AA now not for my drinking but for my Thinking.
Arlene D.
Hi I found this this morning following a Daily reflections reading June 22 in our meeting. No matter what happens in life this is a go to and I actually shared with a couple of co-workers this last few weeks. A simple truth with so much wisdom!! Takes you full circle to Let go and Let God AKA accept it for what it is and let go of the out come!!
Hi I’m a Alcoholic I have been sober for about 2 years. Someone pointed me accepting. It gave me a new understanding. I don’t know it all.
Blessings to all