GIVING UP CENTER STAGE
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for July 12.
Giving up center stage means stepping out of the driver's seat of our own ego and letting a Higher Power take charge. The Big Book tells us that 'selfishness—self-centeredness! That, we think, is the root of our troubles' [Page 62]. When we insist on being the star of our own show, we miss the peace that comes from serving others. The Promises say 'self-seeking will slip away' [Page 84], which happens naturally when we focus on carrying the message to the still-suffering alcoholic rather than our own desires. Chapter 7 shows us the way: 'Practical experience shows that nothing will so much insure immunity from drinking as intensive work with other alcoholics' [Page 89]. By giving up the spotlight, we find lasting sobriety.
In what areas of your life are you still trying to be the director, and how might you practice giving up center stage 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 July 12?
The theme for July 12 is “Giving up Center Stage.” Giving up center stage means stepping out of the driver's seat of our own ego and letting a Higher Power take charge.
In what areas of your life are you still trying to be the director, and how might you practice giving up center stage today?
Chapter 7 shows us the way: 'Practical experience shows that nothing will so much insure immunity from drinking as intensive work with other alcoholics' [Page 89]. By giving up the spotlight, we find lasting sobriety. (Big Book: Chapter 5, pages 60-63 and Chapter 7, pages 89-103)