I have been in charge of morning meditation since Wednesday. It’s the easiest job yet one I wasn’t looking forward to but it wasn’t so bad. I found led meditations on the computer and played them for the group. Today I did something different. I spoke the meditation. I found a beautiful soft piece with piano and guitar and played it while I spoke. I started off having everyone box breath then read the meditation for the day from a book. i have a soothing voice and was very satisfied with my self when I was done. They all said I did a great job and I felt very proud.
Todays process group required us to start by expressing three feelings, and three things I am grateful for. I was feeling vindicated, hopeful, and strong. I was grateful for having balls that morning during meditation, touch ( I love getting hugs from everyone), and that the sober living arrangement was going to be an option for me when I left inpatient. It is something I am looking forward to instead of going straight home. I would definitely prefer to stay in in patient as long as I can though.
During group we had an activity that I thoroughly enjoyed. We watched the video of Admiral McRaven’s commencement speech to the graduating class of University of Texas. Our assignment was to see what we picked up in his address. I saw it back in 2014 and was excited to watch it again. I advise you do too before reading further.
What I learned from Admiral McRaven and how can I relate it to my recovery.
- Generations are changed by one person. I make a difference.
- Every morning make your bed. By taking one step, no matter how simple, you are off to a better start.
- Everyone must provide equal effort. It takes a team in recovery. It’s ok to ask for help.
- Even in diversity you can out perform. Measure a person by the size of his heart not by what he is. Respect yourself.
- Sugar cookies – Sometimes things aren’t perfect.
- Circuses – Failures happen. You learn from them and grow stronger.
- Slide down the obstacle course head first. Think outside the box.
- There are sharks out there. People will place failure in your way, stand your ground, don’t act afraid and punch them in the nose.
- When at your darkest moment you must be your best.
- Start singing when your up to your neck in mud. Don’t give up.
- Don’t ever ring that bell. The bell is the drink. If you want to change your world don’t drink.
It matters not who or what we are, our struggles are similar.