PRAYER: IT WORKS
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for March 19.
Prayer isn't about being holy—it's about staying sober. The Big Book tells us on page 86 that prayer is 'a daily reprieve dependent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition.' That maintenance includes morning and evening prayer, asking for guidance and thanking for another day. On page 87 it says, 'We usually conclude the period of meditation with a prayer that we be shown all through the day what our next step is to be.' Prayer works because it keeps us connected to a Power greater than ourselves, shattering the illusion of self-sufficiency that led us to drink. It's not magic—it's action. As it says on page 63, the Third Step Prayer simply asks God to 'relieve me of the bondage of self.' That's it. When I pray, I get out of my own way. And that's what makes it work.
When has a simple, honest prayer—even one of desperation—changed your outlook or helped you through a tough moment in recovery?
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 March 19?
The theme for March 19 is “Prayer: It Works.” Prayer isn't about being holy—it's about staying sober.
When has a simple, honest prayer—even one of desperation—changed your outlook or helped you through a tough moment in recovery?
When I pray, I get out of my own way. And that's what makes it work. (Big Book: Chapter 6, pages 86-87, with references to page 63 and 76)