Just for today

One of the most basic principles of the 12-Step way of life is that we do what we do "just for today!" I do the DRILL every day to insure my sanity and serenity. (Drill refers to the daily disciplines that keep me safe. Also known as the tools of recovery--prayer, committing my food, literature, phone, meetings, step work and the rest).

This simple slogan has saved me more times than I'd like to admit. When I get tempted to overeat or more recently, when I want to react inappropriately because of anger, which typically bubbles out of fear, I let God remind me that I do what I do "JUST FOR TODAY!" and sometimes I do what I do one moment at a time, trusting and depending on God to lead me by the hand to the other side of my trials and tribulations.

Years ago, when I was first introduced to the idea of abstinence, I couldn't imagine facing a whole day without my favorite foods or any extra food, but my sponsor gently asked, "Could you do it JUST FOR TODAY?" That somehow seemed doable.

I remember, too, the times that I'd go places where food was offered. I wanted it, and I felt like I deserved it, but I honored my commitment and didn't have it that day, but I would pack it up and take it home...and think to myself, "I am not having it just for today, but tomorrow I'll rethink my options." I did that with pieces of wedding cake, with candy bars, with fruit, too.

Sometimes I'd put the food in the freezer for another day. Thank You, Lord, that another day never came. With free fruit, I'd simply make it part of my next day's planned food. That was easier.

Today, I might take food that I could eat tomorrow, but I sincerely don't want "junk" food anymore.

I certainly do not recommend anyone taking "junk" food that might be tempting to eat, but I am here sharing my experiences... It is what I did, and I am still here, but now I am happy, joyous and free. It's all a process.

I do this program JUST FOR TODAY!