My life is rich in many aspects. I have good friends, most on the same path I have been on for almost 40 years. Staying sober and growing spiritually; they go hand in hand.

I don’t alter my mind with substances and have been practicing Soto Zen Buddhism for almost as long as I’ve been sober. Life is not easy, and it’s not hard; between those two seeming opposites lies the heart of spiritual practice and sobriety. 

Each day presents an array of choices before me. The First Choice is to see the alternatives and act from that knowledge.

The Second Choice is to investigate potentials. What would tend toward the greater good? What is realistic and actionable?

The Third Choice is to be flexible. Can I adjust the direction or course I feel is best and am willing to act on? 

The Fourth Choice (but not the last), is always downstream. Can I fully accept the results of my decisions and see the whole process as a Teaching for my own Good?

I want this and not that,

My way is my comfort; All

My pain is the companion

Of comfort I wished for and

Got. Then some things Changed.