Unremitting Inventories

 “Did I do that?”    Urkle

That’s a question I need to ask myself immediately, whenever the ego-based demons of selfishness, fear, dishonesty, or resentment arise. Bill’s experience suggested that we immediately talk with another, and make any necessary amends. The trick is to learn to catch myself in the act, so that I can take positive action before another moment goes by. Let it not fester and become a seemingly untreatable wound.

This can’t mean that I must tolerate the intolerable in another. We are all on a human journey together, but my treatment of others with whom I disagree need never be at odds with what I find true and kind. I can answer with firmness and honor and dignity - those attributes which need no apology. I don’t need to be cute about my actions, or dismissive of causing harm or embarrassment in my pursuit of Truth. I can - and must - stand up for injustice whenever possible, and be willing to call a foul a foul, but there is guidance here. Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind? 

This whole process is learning another way of living, which goes far beyond physical sobriety. I am learning every day to take responsibility for what I say and do, and to consider others in the process. If the answer to “Did I do that?” is Yes, I am learning to own the repercussions, and to respond as the representative of the Divine that I am to the representative of the Divine that others are as well.

Namaste, Baby. Let’s do our best today.