Step 7 is the mid point in the 12 Step process. This was an important step for me. We ask God to remove our shortcomings. A very hard shortcoming for me to lose is fear. We discovered in our inventory work that fear was at the bottom of everything. As I prepare for my total knee replacement next month fear creeps back in. I am truly afraid of surgeries. As an RN I know just enough to worry. I know that anesthesia has serious risks and my doctor explaining them ,as he must do, did not help. I have committed to it as I committed to step 3, to turn my will and life over to the care of God as I understand him. I cannot be a practicing member of AA without acknowledging my commitment in step three.
As I complete the "inner work" of steps 1 thru 7, I must be prepare for the "outer work" of steps 8 thru 12. I trust in my Higher Power to prepare me both mentally and physically. He is leading me to mend my body for the tasks ahead. I will need good legs to carry me to the meetings, to help me drive to spots all over town to pick up drunks for meetings. He has guided me to AA and has been by my side for the last 2 years and 4 months. He sees me when I act foolishly, when I forget to pray, when I'm critical of others and He chooses to heal me anyway. "All fall short of God's standard." We cannot be perfect.
Humility is a key word in step Seven and one that is hard for all humans. Why, just 28 months ago I was the center of my universe. Now I find out that there is no center or even edges to the universe. Humility means giving up control. I made a conscious decision to give up control in step three and I must live by it or else it's a false oath I've taken and makes a mockery out of my program, which I believe is kick ass.
When we put our lives in God's hands he will reshape us as he see's fit. I will march into that hospital at 6:30 AM on April 17th , surrender, and" get out of His way." Say one for me that day. Terry

Tags: Humility