IOCC Challenge

"The Big Book states: "Nevertheless, we find that our thinking will, as time passes, be more and more on the plane of inspiration." (Alcoholics Anonymous page 87) What are some examples of inspiration in your thinking?"

If I am able to stay conscious and in the moment I find inspiration comes in many forms. Nature is a great example, just watching a bird flit between branches and somehow land on a tiny perch in a flutter of feathers. How do they do that? Instincts? I see God.

The "inspiration" that the Big Book refers to is more of a moral imperative. Being driven to become a better man; or even wanting to become a better man is a inner desire that comes from someplace else. GOD perhaps. I know when I was a child the threat of punishment, even eternal damnation was not enough to get me to "do the right thing".

Inspiration comes from hearing about someone who picked up, lost everything and is now back @ a meeting admitting to their struggle; and then asking for help. Humans are awesome creatures, capable of so many unbelievable things. Sacrifices, genuine giving of oneself to another, without any expectations... that is inspiring.

The teenage surfer who lost an arm in the shark attack and still surfs. How do you explain that? Holding my father in my arms crying and telling him about the results of his spinal tap, bawling my eyes out and having him tell me "it's OK" inspires me.

To pass it on and share how precious our time on this planet is... to treat everyone I meet with respect and dignity. I need inspiration DAILY to get up and do it again and again.

Without GOD, prayer, literature, and other defective humans I am lost.

My wife and son inspire me everyday. I am immensely grateful to be sober and to have a chance to experience life, in the moments.

Love,

John