“GOD grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” (12&12 p.41) These simple yet profound words soon became a mantra that resonated deeply within my soul. They encapsulated the essence of my recovery journey, serving as a roadmap to navigate the treacherous terrain of alcoholism and its aftermath.

Serenity, as I surrendered to the reality of my powerlessness over alcohol, I found peace in acknowledging that some aspects of life were beyond my control. This acceptance offered me a refuge from the turmoil of regret and guilt, allowing me to let go of the past and embrace the present. Serenity taught me that true strength lay not in resistance, but in surrender.

Courage was the light that illuminated my path toward change. With the support of my fellow AA members, I dared to confront the demons of alcoholism, facing the daunting task of rebuilding my life one step at a time. The prayer instilled in me the bravery to dismantle the destructive patterns that had ensnared me for so long. It empowered me to confront my fears and insecurities head-on, enabling me to emerge as a resilient warrior in the battle against drink.

Wisdom taught me to differentiate between what was within my grasp and what was not. This newfound clarity illuminated the choices that would lead me down the path of recovery and those that would steer me towards relapse. I learned to discern between fleeting impulses and genuine desires, cultivating a sense of self-awareness that became my compass in times of doubt. Wisdom became the lens through which I evaluated my actions and decisions, ensuring that I continued to tread the path of sobriety.

The Serenity Prayer continues to be an integral part of my daily life, a constant reminder of the transformative power of acceptance, courage, and wisdom. Through its grace, I have not only embraced serenity but have also woven it into the fabric of my existence, creating a tapestry of recovery that is as vibrant and resilient as my spirit. I have many years of sobriety now and I am a grateful traveller on the path of recovery utilising the tools of the Programme and the wonderful Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous.

GEOFF, Miles Platting