Food for Thought: March 1st

Other People's Problems

Sometimes we wear ourselves out trying to solve another person's problem. Is this not perhaps a form of egotism? We feel that somehow we should have all the answers and be able to find a solution to every problem, especially when someone close to us is in trouble.

We may be sympathetic and supportive and helpful, but we cannot play the role of God in another person's life. Even our children must learn from their mistakes, just as we continue to learn from our own. If I trust my Higher Power to lead and direct me, then surely He will also direct my family and friends.

The best thing I can do for anyone else is to maintain my own sanity and sobriety. If I eat over a problem--whether it is mine or yours or ours--then I am less able to deal with it.

There are times when no solution seems forthcoming, when an unfortunate or tragic circumstance must be accepted and lived with in the best manner possible. We may not be able to change the circumstance, but we can be sure that God will give us the strength to deal with it.

Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change.

From Food for Thought: Daily Meditations for Overeaters by Elisabeth L. ©1980, 1992 by Hazelden Foundation.

**********************************************************

It is not my job to solve other people's problems...............it is my job to deal with my OWN problems in the best way I possibly can, and to leave others to solve THEIR problems.

While sympathetic and supportive and helpful, it is not my place to play God in another person's life. I cannot, and will not, try to orchestrate their life, or provide solutions to problems THEY need to resolve on their own. My path is mine, their path is theirs.

If I eat or drink or smoke over my problems, or because of someone else's problems, then I am not as able to deal with those problems as I would be sober.  When I 'use' I purposely shut DOWN instead of staying present and available to those who need me (including ME!)

For today, there is no problem that is 'bigger' than God, and no problem that He will not help me deal with.  For today, I choose to stay sober and deal with the hand I'm dealt.