Page 108 - The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous

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INTO ACTION 87
What used to be the hunch or the occasional inspira­
tion gradually becomes a working part of the mind.
Being still inexperienced and having just made con­
scious contact with God, it is not probable that we are
going to be inspired at all times. We might pay for
this presumption in all sorts of absurd actions and
ideas. Nevertheless, we find that our thinking will,
as time passes, be more and more on the plane of in­
spiration. We come to rely upon it.
We usually conclude the period of meditation with
a prayer that we be shown all through the day what
our next step is to be, that we be given whatever we
need to take care of such problems. We ask especially
for freedom from self-will, and are careful to make no
request for ourselves only. We may ask for ourselves,
however, if others will be helped. We are careful
never to pray for our own selfish ends. Many of us
have wasted a lot of time doing that and it doesn’t
work. You can easily see why.
If circumstances warrant, we ask our wives or
friends to join us in morning meditation. If we belong
to a religious denomination which requires a definite
morning devotion, we attend to that also. If not mem­
bers of religious bodies, we sometimes select and
memorize a few set prayers which emphasize the
principles we have been discussing. There are many
helpful books also. Suggestions about these may be
obtained from one’s priest, minister, or rabbi. Be
quick to see where religious people are right. Make
use of what they offer.
As we go through the day we pause, when agitated
or doubtful, and ask for the right thought or action.
We constantly remind ourselves we are no longer