faith

Jimmy Carter:
I have one life and one chance to make it count for something . . . I'm free to choose what that something is, and the something I've chosen is my faith. Now, my faith goes beyond theology and religion and requires considerable work and effort. My faith demands -- this is not optional -- my faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can with whatever I have to try to make a difference.

one of the cornerstones of recovery for me most certainly is faith. i cannot explain it really. i only know that i have had to let go of what i want in many situations in order to be relieved of the burden of that want. there is a phrase from a course in miracles which goes- would you rather be happy or would you rather be right.

i have asked myself that question in so many instances, and honestly most of the time my first answer is both. that's real but not necessarily realistic. and not likely. the practical answer that follows is being happy. i would definitely rather be happy.

the only way i have learned to do that is by letting go of my expectation. it doesn't mean i don't apply myself. quite the opposite as a matter of fact. i need to pour some of myself into my actions because i am able. i really never expected to see 50 and so each day is truly a bonus. is there a reason i have survived this journey? will i ever know that reason? can i be fulfilled without knowing?

these questions and many just like them are part of my landscape and i have come to believe that it takes faith to know the questions exist and not really have an answer. i believe i will be ok, whether or not i have a plausible response.

sounds good eh? it even works sometimes. i'm still trying to get it to work more. after all as i've heard many times, "faith without works is dead".