A FRAME OF REFERENCE
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for August 19.
A frame of reference, in the Big Book's sense, is the new lens we get when we stop trying to run the show. Before the Steps, our only reference point was ourselves — our fears, resentments, and ego. But as we work Steps 1 through 3, we begin to see life from a spiritual perspective. The book promises that we will 'know a new freedom and a new happiness' [Page 83]. That shift in viewpoint is our frame of reference — instead of asking 'what do I want?' we start asking 'what is God's will for me?' [Page 85]. This new outlook makes even the toughest situations bearable, because we're no longer the center of the universe. As it says, 'We will see that our new attitude toward liquor has been given us without any thought or effort on our part' [Page 84]. That's the new frame of reference: a quiet confidence that a Higher Power is handling things.
Can you think of a time when your old frame of reference — your own will or fear — led you into trouble? How might a spiritual frame of reference change that situation today?
Start each day with Einstein's Big Book perspective — a quiet moment before the world gets loud.
This is Recovery Einstein's original Big Book perspective on the day's theme — not the official AA Daily Reflections text. For the official reflection, follow the aa.org link above. Page references are to Alcoholics Anonymous (the Big Book), 4th Edition.
Quick answers
What is the AA Daily Reflection for August 19?
The theme for August 19 is “A Frame of Reference.” A frame of reference, in the Big Book's sense, is the new lens we get when we stop trying to run the show.
Can you think of a time when your old frame of reference — your own will or fear — led you into trouble? How might a spiritual frame of reference change that situation today?
That's the new frame of reference: a quiet confidence that a Higher Power is handling things. (Big Book: Chapter 6, pages 83-85)