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Responsibility

“A lot happens in one day, both negative and positive. lf we do not take the time to appreciate both, perhaps we will miss something that will help us grow.”
– IP No. 8, Just for Today

Responsibility, responsibility – the responsibilities of life are everywhere. We’re “supposed to wear seat belts. We’re “supposed to° clean our homes. We’re “supposed to” do certain things for our spouse, our children, the people we sponsor. On top of all this, we’re “supposed to” go to meetings and practice our program as best we can. It’s no wonder that, sometimes, we want to run from all these tasks and escape to some far-off island where we’re not “supposed to” do anything!

At times like these, when we’ve become overwhelmed with our responsibilities, we have forgotten that responsibility need not be burdensome. When we have a desire to run away from our responsibilities we need to slow down, remember why we have chosen them, and pay attention to the gifts they bring. Whether it’s a job we normally find challenging and interesting, or a partner whose personality we are usually excited by, or a child whom we naturally like to play with and care for, there is joy to be found in all the responsibilities of our lives.

Just for Today:

Each moment is special. I will pay attention, grateful for my responsibilities and the special joys they bring.

From the book “NA Just for Today”. © 1991 Narcotics Anonymous World Services, Inc.