Page 106 - The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous

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INTO ACTION 85
react sanely and normally, and we will find that this
has happened automatically. We will see that our new
attitude toward liquor has been given us without any
thought or effort on our part. It just comes! That is
the miracle of it. We are not fighting it, neither are
we avoiding temptation. We feel as though we had
been placed in a position of neutrality—safe and
protected. We have not even sworn off. Instead, the
problem has been removed. It does not exist for us.
We are neither cocky nor are we afraid. That is our
experience. That is how we react so long as we keep
in fit spiritual condition.
It is easy to let up on the spiritual program of action
and rest on our laurels. We are headed for trouble if
we do, for alcohol is a subtle foe. We are not cured of
alcoholism. What we really have is a daily reprieve
contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condi­
tion. Every day is a day when we must carry the
vision of God’s will into all of our activities. “How
can I best serve Thee—Thy will (not mine) be done.’’
These are thoughts which must go with us constantly.
We can exercise our will power along this line all we
wish. It is the proper use of the will.
Much has already been said about receiving
strength, inspiration, and direction from Him who
has all knowledge and power. If we have carefully
followed directions, we have begun to sense the flow
of His Spirit into us. To some extent we have become
God-conscious. We have begun to develop this vital
sixth sense. But we must go further and that means
more action.
Step Eleven suggests prayer and meditation. We
shouldn’t be shy on this matter of prayer. Better men