March 14
Before It Hurts More
Trouble has often made a persuasive teacher. When a relationship nearly ends or our pride receives a hard knock, we become ready to listen. It is easy to conclude that we only change under pressure. We may even wait for things to get bad enough, as though a painful consequence were the permission we need to take a familiar problem seriously at last.
The possibility of reaching for humility voluntarily is a kinder thought. We might acknowledge an error while the conversation is still friendly. We might ask for guidance before our plan becomes a crisis. Nothing dramatic has to happen for us to become teachable. Earlier pain can inform us without having to be repeated. We are allowed to recognize a pattern, remember where it tends to lead, and ask God for help while there is still room to choose calmly.
Where might I become willing without waiting for another painful consequence?
We do not have to arrange another defeat.
For the A.A. nerds: As Bill Sees It, No. 211, “Reaching for Humility.”