ACCEPTING OUR PRESENT CIRCUMSTANCES
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for January 12.
Accepting our present circumstances is the bedrock of recovery. The Big Book shows us that the first step is admitting we are powerless over alcohol, which is an acceptance of our reality as it is right now [Page 30]. Trying to fight or resent where we are only keeps us stuck. The Promises remind us that we will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it [Page 83] — that's acceptance of all our history, not just today's struggles. And in one powerful personal story, we hear: 'Acceptance is the answer to all my problems today' [Page 417]. That doesn't mean we like everything; it means we stop fighting reality. When we accept our present situation completely — the good, the bad, the uncomfortable — we free ourselves to grow and let a Higher Power work through us. Resentment and fear melt away when we surrender to what is, trusting that our circumstances are exactly what we need for our spiritual development.
What is one thing about your life right now that you are resisting, and how might fully accepting it change your outlook or actions today?
Start each day with Einstein's Big Book perspective — a quiet moment before the world gets loud.
This is Recovery Einstein's original Big Book perspective on the day's theme — not the official AA Daily Reflections text. For the official reflection, follow the aa.org link above. Page references are to Alcoholics Anonymous (the Big Book), 4th Edition.
Quick answers
What is the AA Daily Reflection for January 12?
The theme for January 12 is “Accepting Our Present Circumstances.” Accepting our present circumstances is the bedrock of recovery.
What is one thing about your life right now that you are resisting, and how might fully accepting it change your outlook or actions today?
Resentment and fear melt away when we surrender to what is, trusting that our circumstances are exactly what we need for our spiritual development. (Big Book: Chapter 6, pages 83-85 and the personal story 'Acceptance Was the Answer' on pages 417-418)