“Many of us have found that setting aside quiet time for ourselves is helpful in making conscious contact with our Higher Power.”
Basic Text, page 92
Most of us pay lip-service to the value of conscious contact with a Higher Power. Yet how many of us consistently take time to improve that conscious contact? If we’ve not already established a regular regimen of prayer and meditation, today is the day to start one. A “quiet time” need not be long. Many of us find that twenty to thirty minutes is enough time to quiet ourselves, focus our attention with a spiritual reading, share our thoughts and concerns in prayer, and take a few moments to listen for an answer in meditation.
Our “quiet time” need not be lengthy to be effective, provided it is consistent. Twenty minutes taken once a month to pray will probably do little but frustrate us with the poor quality of our conscious contact. Twenty minutes taken regularly each day, however, renews and reinforces an already lively contact with our Higher Power. In the hustle and bustle of the recovering addict’s day, many of us end up going from morning to night without taking time out to improve our conscious contact with the God we’ve come to understand.
However, if we set aside a particular time of the day, every day, as ‘quiet time,” we can be sure that our conscious contact will improve. Establishing a routine can help integrate this practice into our daily lives. Whether it’s in the morning, during lunch, or before bed, having a set time can make it easier to maintain consistency.
Regular quiet time has numerous benefits for those in recovery. It enhances our spiritual connection, providing us with strength and clarity. It also reduces stress and anxiety, creating a sense of peace and calm. Over time, this practice can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our Higher Power, fostering spiritual growth.
Starting a new routine can be challenging, especially with the demands of daily life. Here are some tips to help overcome common barriers:
Just for today: I will set aside a few moments, once I finish reading today’s entry, to pray and meditate. This will be the beginning of a new pattern for my recovery. By committing to this practice, we take an important step towards nurturing our spiritual well-being. As we grow in our recovery, our conscious contact with our Higher Power will deepen, guiding us through the challenges and triumphs of our journey.