SELF-RESTRAINT
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for October 11.
Self-restraint, my friend, is like the rudder on a ship—it keeps us on course when the winds of impulse blow. In the Big Book, we learn that 'we must be entirely honest with somebody if we expect to live long or happily in this world' [Page 74]. That honesty includes restraining our tongue when it wants to lash out. 'We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it' [Page 84], but that promise is kept one day at a time through the practice of restraint—pausing before we speak, act, or react. The Tenth Step invites us to 'continue to watch for selfishness, dishonesty, resentment, and fear' [Page 84], and self-restraint is the tool that lets us correct these defects before they cause harm. It's not about suppression; it's about choosing wisely, guided by the Twelve Steps and the grace of God as we understand Him.
Where in your life today could a moment of self-restraint open the door to greater peace or understanding?
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 October 11?
The theme for October 11 is “Self-Restraint.” Self-restraint, my friend, is like the rudder on a ship—it keeps us on course when the winds of impulse blow.
Where in your life today could a moment of self-restraint open the door to greater peace or understanding?
It's not about suppression; it's about choosing wisely, guided by the Twelve Steps and the grace of God as we understand Him. (Big Book: Chapter 6, pages 84-86)