What a concept! The more tolerance I have for others, the more others put up with me
Recently, I was talking with a friend and the subject of tolerance came up. I have discovered that by embracing fully the spiritual aspects of the AA program, I have more patience in so many ways.
The AA program is fundamentally spiritual. The 2nd paragraph of How it Works says “If you want what we have and are willing to go to any lengths to get it, then COD.” (Come On Down)
I wanted what you people had and was willing to go to any lengths to get it. So I glommed onto the 3rd Step voraciously. I asked questions at most AA meetings.
When the chairman asked at the start of a meeting if anyone was having a problem with any part of the program or steps, my hand was up and waving.
I read whatever I could get my hands on and turned as much of my life over to my Higher Power as I could at the time. And have added more study regularly as I advance in age and program longevity.
When the principles of The Serenity Prayer are added, and I use them, it makes me truly Happy, Joyous, and Free. I now don’t want to ever lose this feeling. I am getting my open-mindedness back.
When I discover that when my choice is being happy or being right, I choose to be happy. I can’t change anyone or anything but me, myself, and/or I.
Opinions are everyone’s own choice and, because these opinions may not agree with mine, they are still entitled to their own opinion.
Remember, acceptance or tolerance does not mean that you have to like anything. Just accept it as someone else’s opinion and move on with your own life.
When I turn others and their thoughts and opinions over, I rid my mind of them. This new freedom allows me to become or remain Happy, Joyous, and Free. It can happen to you, too, if you work the program every day. Thank you, God!