WHEN THE GOING GETS ROUGH
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for June 14.
When the going gets rough, we often feel we're back at square one. But the Big Book reminds us that rough patches are exactly when our program works best. On page 83, we read the Promises: 'We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it.' That means even the hard moments are part of our recovery—they teach us humility and dependence on a Power greater than ourselves. And on page 85, it says we are given a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition. So rough times aren't a sign we've failed; they're an invitation to double down on the Steps, especially Step Eleven — prayer and meditation — which is discussed on pages 86-87. When I'm struggling, I go back to page 63's Third Step Prayer and remember that my job is to trust, not to manage. The Promises will come true, but not on my timeline.
When you hit a rough patch in recovery, what's your first move: your sponsor, your Higher Power, or your own best thinking?
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 June 14?
The theme for June 14 is “When the Going Gets Rough.” When the going gets rough, we often feel we're back at square one.
When you hit a rough patch in recovery, what's your first move: your sponsor, your Higher Power, or your own best thinking?
When I'm struggling, I go back to page 63's Third Step Prayer and remember that my job is to trust, not to manage. The Promises will come true, but not on my timeline. (Big Book: Chapter 6, pages 83-87)