Replacing self-pity with gratitude

I get a couple of thought-for-the-day emails. Today's email sums up what I have been doing with my gratitude posts this year.

Self-pity in its early stages is as snug as a feather mattress. Only when it hardens does it become uncomfortable. --Maya Angelou

Some days we grasp at self-pity like a blanket on a cold night, and we are momentarily comforted. However, extended periods of self-pity will undermine our primary purpose, which is to be at peace with ourselves and others so that we may know freedom from our addictions. Thus our self-pity prevents us from carrying a message of hope to fellow sufferers, that they too can find release from their suffering through the Twelve Steps.

Staying clean and sober are gifts available to all of us when we cultivate gratitude. We can be grateful for this program that has brought manageability and serenity to our life, and that leaves us little room for self-pity, anger, or impatience. Our mind will be willing and open to receive God's guidance and support when we let go of our self-pity.

Today I will stay free of self-pity so I can receive God's strength.

I am grateful to be changing my thinking in a positive way that makes my life and my relationships better.