WITHOUT RESERVATION
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for September 27.
When we approach recovery with reservation, we hold back a piece of ourselves—a bit of fear, a shred of ego, a secret plan to drink again. The Big Book says on page 74, 'We must be entirely honest with somebody if we expect to live long or happily.' That honesty must be total, without any hidden corners. Giving ourselves fully to the Steps, starting with Step Three—'made a decision to turn our will and our life over to the care of God as we understood Him' [Page 59]—requires letting go of every mental escape hatch. On page 84, the Promises tell us 'we have ceased fighting anything or anyone—even alcohol.' That ceasefire only comes when we surrender without condition. Half measures availed us nothing [Page 70]. The freedom we find is directly proportional to the completeness of our surrender.
Where in my life today am I still holding back—even a little—from complete honesty or surrender? What would it look like to let go of that last reservation?
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 September 27?
The theme for September 27 is “Without Reservation.” When we approach recovery with reservation, we hold back a piece of ourselves—a bit of fear, a shred of ego, a secret plan to drink again.
Where in my life today am I still holding back—even a little—from complete honesty or surrender? What would it look like to let go of that last reservation?
The freedom we find is directly proportional to the completeness of our surrender. (Big Book: Chapter 5, pages 59-63; Chapter 6, pages 74-84)