FREEDOM MONTH: DAY 6: “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”― Viktor E. Frankl
Isn’t that simple? I wish it were more the way I personally worked.
Like the BB says “We pause when agitated…” What a great idea! I am not made this way, but have made fewer amends when I have been able to do this. As nice as it sounds, it will always be the most important practice I get to do in these spiritual steps.
My first thoughts are quite often self-centered and selfish. I sometimes must talk myself out of that stance. At the same time, I also have to talk myself out of being a doormat. So there is a happy balance and my challenge (I believe this is common to all recovering persons!) is to meet this balance.
The pause is essential…the power we get when we can sit still for just a few moments before we answer a request or take action on an idea, request, comment, or any interaction with someone is beautiful. I love it. And this quote is so perfect for others like me who jump in with a quick retort, answer, gesture, or action that must be cleaned up later.
A good part of Step 9, for me, is to learn from it and discontinue the things that make it necessary in the first place. It is a great step. I love it more than almost all the others. BUT, it is one we can learn from and eliminate in future if we learn to be mindful and learn that “pause” idea.
Because he talks about the space, it appeals to me even more. Spaciousness is always going to be a healing place for me. If I allow spaciousness into my life, in every possible fashion, I am guaranteed to have a more comfortable and pleasant experience. And, by the way, so are those around me. Isn’t that wonderful?
Dolphin Hug 